Post by : Saif Rahman

Russian President Vladimir Putin has engaged in extensive talks with representatives from U.S. President Donald Trump, asserting that any peace resolution with Ukraine is contingent upon addressing territorial disputes. This nearly four-hour meeting, which concluded around 3 a.m. in Moscow, demonstrates that peace negotiations to conclude the Ukraine conflict are entering a critical and sensitive juncture.

The Kremlin reported that Putin convened with Trump’s envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner for what officials characterized as open and productive discussions. Russia reiterated its stance, indicating that a persistent peace is unattainable without Ukraine's acceptance of necessary territorial modifications. Moscow is seeking for Ukraine to withdraw its military from regions in the east that it claims to have annexed but do not have full control over.

This discussion followed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s sharp critique of European allies during the World Economic Forum in Davos, where he emphasized that Europe's response to the conflict has been sluggish and inconsistent, leaving Ukraine in a delicate position. Zelenskyy cautioned that, without more timely and vigorous action, Europe might compromise its own security.

Kremlin advisor Yuri Ushakov acknowledged that the territorial issue remains a primary barrier to peace. He also mentioned that Russia, Ukraine, and the United States are scheduled to conduct fresh discussions regarding security in the United Arab Emirates, with these talks anticipated to begin shortly and potentially represent a pivotal movement towards a more comprehensive agreement.

Following his encounter with Trump in Davos, Zelenskyy stated that peace proposals are nearly finalized but admitted uncertainties still permeate regarding the future status of occupied territories. He emphasized that Ukraine is willing to engage in dialogue but cannot accept terms that undermine its sovereignty or contravene international law.

Trump highlighted that both Putin and Zelenskyy are inclined towards a deal, with compromises being explored from all parties. He reiterated that the issues of borders and territory persist as major points of contention. Trump affirmed that the objective is to conclude the conflict as swiftly as possible, even if tough choices are required.

The ongoing war has inflicted significant damage on both nations, with Russia currently controlling around 20% of Ukrainian territory at a substantial cost in both lives and finances. Sanctions have put considerable strain on the Russian economy, while Ukraine faces formidable challenges including shortages in weaponry, financial resources, and personnel. Reports indicate that desertions and evasion of the draft have eroded its defenses.

Zelenskyy utilized his platform at Davos to admonish Europe for inadequate defense spending, sluggish actions, and the failure to leverage frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraine. He warned that Europe risks repeating past errors unless it adopts a more robust and unified front.

Upcoming discussions in the UAE are viewed as a crucial indicator of whether diplomatic efforts can progress. Zelenskyy emphasized that compromises must be made on Russia’s part as well, not solely Ukraine’s. The Kremlin confirmed plans to send a high-ranking delegation to Abu Dhabi, along with separate discussions regarding economic issues.

As dialogues continue, the route to lasting peace appears unclear. The discussions reveal that, despite mounting pressure to conclude the war, fundamental disagreements over land, security, and trust hinder the path to a conclusive resolution.

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