Post by : Saif Rahman

On Saturday, Russia launched a series of drone and missile strikes across Kyiv and various other regions of Ukraine, coinciding with President Volodymyr Zelenskiy’s preparation for his forthcoming meeting with former U.S. President Donald Trump. These discussions, set to take place in Florida, are aimed at exploring a potential resolution to the ongoing war which has persisted since Russia's invasion in February 2022.

Explosions rocked Kyiv as Ukrainian air defense units engaged with the incoming threats. The capital was among the key targets, alongside areas in the northeastern and southern parts of the country. An air raid alert lasted several hours, although reports of damage or power outages were not immediately documented.

Control over territory remains a major hurdle in the peace talks. Zelenskiy noted that a 20-point peace plan, with U.S. backing, is nearing completion. This plan includes critical security assurances from the United States—an essential measure following the failure of earlier agreements to deter further Russian military actions. Zelenskiy expressed optimism that significant progress could be made before the New Year.

Trump remarked that the U.S. is spearheading peace initiatives and anticipates fruitful discussions with Zelenskiy, while also hoping to eventually engage with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Kyiv is advocating for permanent, legally binding security guarantees, while a U.S. proposal entails a 15-year renewable agreement.

Additional contentious issues encompass the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, Europe’s largest, which is currently under Russian control, alongside the eastern regions of Donetsk and Luhansk. Moscow is insisting on Ukraine’s withdrawal from specific areas of Donetsk, while Kyiv demands an end to hostilities along existing frontlines. A proposed U.S. initiative considers establishing a free economic zone in exchange for Ukraine vacating certain territories, though the specifics remain under negotiation.

Zelenskiy also indicated that should the U.S. fail to fully back Ukraine's territorial integrity, the 20-point initiative might be put to a public referendum, contingent on Russia agreeing to a 60-day ceasefire for preparations.

Russian representatives have acknowledged discrepancies with Ukraine's perspective on the peace proposal but have adopted a cautiously optimistic stance. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov referred to the negotiations as a “turning point,” while Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov confirmed ongoing interactions with U.S. officials regarding these strategies.

The recent attacks underscore the pressing need for peace. As diplomatic efforts continue, the Ukrainian populace continues to face the threat of missile and drone assaults. The forthcoming meeting between Zelenskiy and Trump is viewed as a pivotal moment that could significantly shape the region’s path towards peace and stability.

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