Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said negotiations toward a potential peace agreement with Russia have produced a “solid” 20-point framework that includes proposed security guarantees involving the United States and European allies.
Speaking as Ukraine’s negotiating team returned from talks in Miami, Zelensky said in a post on X that the core elements of the plan and related documents are largely complete, though key issues remain unresolved. He described the drafts as dignified and close to a real outcome while acknowledging that some provisions are unacceptable to both Kyiv and Moscow.
U.S. officials, he said, are continuing discussions with Russian representatives and are expected to relay feedback to Ukraine.
Why It Matters
The potential for a comprehensive ceasefire in the war between Russia and Ukraine that began with the Russian invasion on February 24, 2022, has drawn international attention, given the devastating human and economic costs of the conflict and its impact on regional security.
The U.S.-steered negotiations reflect Washington’s commitment to forging a settlement, and the proposed 20-point plan, with substantial security guarantees, could shape the future security architecture of Eastern Europe.
A breakthrough, if achieved, may influence global energy markets, international law and future NATO-EU security arrangements.
What To Know
Zelensky said Monday that initial U.S. proposals “meet many of Kyiv’s demands,” with nearly 90 percent of Ukraine’s requests incorporated into the draft agreements. The core of the latest peace effort is a 20-point plan, which serves as the foundation of ongoing discussions between Ukraine, Russia, the United States, and European allies.
According to Zelensky, recent negotiations held in Florida have produced framework documents on both multilateral and bilateral security guarantees for Ukraine, with major provisions still under debate.
The plan reportedly includes stipulations that the Ukrainian army remains at a peacetime size of 800,000, as well as steps toward European Union membership for Ukraine.
Security in the air, on land, and at sea would be guaranteed by European forces under the leadership of France and the U.K., with a “backstop” from the United States.
European countries would also contribute to Ukraine’s energy, financial, and civil infrastructure security. Zelensky said that the bilateral security document with the U.S. should undergo review by Congress, with classified annexes shielding sensitive details.
While diplomatic talks continue, military activity has not abated. Ukrainian armed forces have claimed to strike multiple targets deep inside Russian territory and in Russian-occupied areas, aiming to disrupt the war effort and contest Russian claims of strength at the negotiation table.
Russian forces, meanwhile, have kept up their attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. Both sides reported escalating drone strikes and missile exchanges overnight, with civilian infrastructure again in the crosshairs.
According to Ukrainian officials, a central point of the peace framework is the involvement of the U.S. and Europe in future security guarantees for Ukraine. Zelensky insisted on congressional review for any binding document, while suggesting some annexes remain classified due to sensitive information or national security concerns.
What People Are Saying
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky: “Overall, it looks quite solid at this stage. There are some things we are probably not ready for, and I’m sure there are things the Russians are not ready for either.”
Steve Witkoff, U.S. envoy, told the Los Angeles Times on Sunday: “Our shared priority is to stop the killing, ensure guaranteed security, and create conditions for Ukraine’s recovery, stability, and long-term prosperity. Peace must be not only a cessation of hostilities, but also a dignified foundation for a stable future.”
Kirill Dmitriev, Russian diplomat, said, according to the Los Angeles Times: “The discussions are proceeding constructively. They began earlier and will continue today and will also continue tomorrow.”
What Happens Next
Further negotiations are expected between U.S., Ukrainian and Russian officials as parties attempt to resolve outstanding issues in the 20-point plan and associated security guarantees.
Ukrainian and American teams plan to continue online consultations, focusing on security provisions.
Any final agreement may need approval from the U.S. Congress and will depend on the ability to address core concerns about security, territory and Ukraine’s sovereignty. No specific timeline has been announced for conclusion or potential signing of an agreement.
Update 12/22/25, 2:57 p.m. ET: This story was updated with additional information.