President Donald Trump stated on Sunday that negotiations to end the Russia-Ukraine war are nearing a breakthrough following a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at Mar-a-Lago, though he acknowledged that the critical issue of territory remains unresolved.

“I do think we’re getting a lot closer, maybe very close,” Trump told reporters after the talks. Zelenskyy described the discussion as “really great” and claimed that U.S.-Ukraine security guarantees were “100% agreed” upon—a point Trump later tempered when questioned, indicating persistent diplomatic nuances in the draft agreement.

The Core Sticking Point: Land and Security

When asked what issues remained unresolved, Trump pointed squarely to “the land.” He suggested that delaying a deal could lead to further territorial losses for Ukraine. “Some of that land has been taken… you are better off making a deal now,” he said, underscoring the urgency conveyed by recent Russian battlefield advances.

Zelenskyy confirmed that a 20-point peace plan is about 90% ready. The proposal reportedly includes provisions for a Ukrainian vote on ceding disputed territory and the creation of a demilitarized “free economic zone” in Donetsk. However, Moscow’s insistence on Ukraine surrendering the entire Donbas region—including areas still under Kyiv’s control—remains a major obstacle.

Coordinated Diplomacy Amid Escalating Violence

The high-stakes meeting followed a telephone call between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier on Sunday, with Trump noting he would call Putin again after concluding talks with Zelenskyy. The synchronized diplomacy occurs against a backdrop of intensified violence; on Saturday, Russia launched hundreds of missiles and drones at Ukrainian energy infrastructure, which Zelenskyy characterized as a direct response to the U.S.-brokered peace efforts.

A Kremlin official stated that both U.S. and Russian leaders oppose a temporary ceasefire, arguing it would only prolong the conflict. The official hinted that Ukraine must make a “bold decision” regarding Donbas for the war to end.

Path Forward: Security Guarantees and Future Summits

Zelenskyy emphasized that agreed security guarantees are a “key milestone” for lasting peace and announced that Trump will host follow-up meetings next month with Ukrainian and European leaders to advance the plan. These guarantees are viewed as essential for Kyiv to consider any territorial compromises.

The talks unfold during what Zelenskyy called “some of the most active diplomatic days of the year,” with outcomes heavily dependent on Western partners’ continued support and pressure on Russia. Despite the progress cited, the complex negotiation must still reconcile Ukraine’s sovereignty concerns with Russia’s territorial demands and the strategic interests of European allies wary of a settlement that might incentivize further aggression.