Post by : Saif Rahman

On Saturday, Russia struck Kyiv and various regions of Ukraine with missile and drone attacks, mere hours before President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is set to meet with former U.S. President Donald Trump in Florida. These discussions aim to work toward a resolution for the nearly four-year war, noted as the deadliest conflict in Europe since World War II.

Reports of explosions filled the air in Kyiv as the local air defence systems engaged with incoming threats. Russian drones targeted key areas including the capital and parts of northeastern and southern Ukraine. An air raid alert persisted for hours, resulting in at least eight reported injuries.

The attacks also prompted the temporary shutdown of two Polish airports, Rzeszów and Lublin, with Polish jets being mobilized. No comments have been made by Russia regarding these operations. Earlier this week, Russian forces had already intensified their attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and launched increased assaults near Odesa, the primary port city.

One of the most contentious issues in the peace negotiations remains territorial control. Zelenskiy mentioned that a 20-point peace plan, supported by the U.S., is almost 90% finalized. A significant security guarantee agreement between Ukraine and the U.S. is nearing completion, which is vital after previous guarantees did not prevent ongoing aggression. Zelenskiy holds hope for reaching critical decisions before the New Year.

In the lead-up to the meeting, Zelenskiy and Trump are expected to discuss matters with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and other European leaders. Ukraine is advocating for long-term, legally binding security guarantees, whereas the U.S. has proposed a 15-year renewable agreement. Trump has expressed optimism regarding the upcoming talks and is eager to engage with Russian President Vladimir Putin soon.

Key issues also include the control over the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, Europe’s largest, currently occupied by Russian forces, along with the eastern regions of Donetsk and Luhansk. Moscow demands Ukraine's withdrawal from certain areas in Donetsk, while Kyiv is calling for a cessation of fighting along current frontlines. A U.S.-proposed compromise suggests establishing a free economic zone if Ukraine withdraws from specific regions, but details remain under discussion.

Zelenskiy has indicated that if the U.S. does not back Ukraine’s territorial stance fully, the 20-point peace plan may be subjected to a public referendum, contingent on Russia agreeing to a 60-day ceasefire to enable necessary preparations. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov acknowledged the differences with Ukraine’s proposal but mentioned that the negotiations have reached a “turning point.” Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov confirmed ongoing discussions with U.S. officials, though Russia's viewpoint has yet to be disclosed.

The recent attacks highlight the urgent need for progress in the peace process. As diplomatic discussions unfold, millions of Ukrainians remain vulnerable amid ongoing threats from missile and drone assaults. The forthcoming Zelenskiy-Trump meeting stands as a pivotal moment in determining if diplomacy can finally lead to an end to this prolonged and devastating conflict.

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