As the war in Ukraine continues into its third year, a potential peace agreement involving U.S. President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has become a focal point of international discourse. Recent developments suggest that the U.S. is actively pursuing a deal that could reshape the geopolitical landscape of Eastern Europe.
Are Trump and Zelensky on a Collision Course?
President Trump has expressed optimism about a prospective peace deal between Russia and Ukraine, asserting that “most of the major points” have been agreed upon. He has urged both nations to engage in high-level talks to finalize the agreement.
Conversely, President Zelensky has firmly rejected any proposal that includes recognizing Russian sovereignty over Crimea or other occupied territories. He maintains that only the Ukrainian people have the authority to decide the nation’s territorial integrity.
This fundamental disagreement underscores a significant rift between the two leaders, with Trump advocating for a pragmatic resolution and Zelensky emphasizing national sovereignty and legal principles.
Without Ukrainian Consent?
Reports indicate that the proposed U.S.-led peace framework includes recognizing Russian control over Crimea and parts of Eastern Ukraine. President Trump has stated that “Crimea will stay with Russia,” suggesting a willingness to formalize the status quo without Ukrainian agreement.
Ukrainian officials have expressed concern over being sidelined in these negotiations. President Zelensky has emphasized that Ukraine will not accept any decisions made without its direct involvement, asserting that any agreement excluding Ukraine is “not acceptable”.
This approach raises questions about the legitimacy and sustainability of a peace deal brokered without the full participation of all affected parties.
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Can Zelensky Refuse to Sign a Deal with Russia?
Legally and politically, President Zelensky possesses the authority to reject any peace agreement that compromises Ukraine’s territorial integrity. He has consistently stated that Ukraine will not cede any territory and that the nation’s sovereignty is non-negotiable.
However, external pressures, including potential reductions in U.S. military aid, could influence Ukraine’s negotiating position. Trump’s administration has hinted at the possibility of halting support if Ukraine does not engage in the proposed peace process.
Despite these pressures, Zelensky’s steadfast commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty suggests that he is prepared to resist agreements that undermine the nation’s territorial claims.
Why Does Zelensky Seek Israeli-Style Military Support from the U.S.?
President Zelensky has advocated for security guarantees from the United States akin to those provided to Israel. Such an arrangement would encompass military aid, technological support, training, and financial assistance, formalized through a bilateral agreement.
This model aims to ensure long-term U.S. support for Ukraine’s defense capabilities, independent of NATO membership. By institutionalizing this support through congressional approval, Ukraine seeks to secure a stable and enduring partnership with the U.S., regardless of changes in administration.
Such guarantees would bolster Ukraine’s defense posture and signal a strong commitment from the U.S. to deter future aggression.
Is Israeli-Style Support for Ukraine Feasible?
Implementing an Israeli-style support model for Ukraine is theoretically feasible but faces practical challenges. While the U.S. provides substantial aid to Israel, replicating this model for Ukraine would require significant political will and consensus within the U.S. Congress..
Experts suggest that a formal security commitment could serve as an interim arrangement until Ukraine’s NATO membership is resolved . However, the sustainability of such support may be influenced by domestic political dynamics and shifting priorities.
Therefore, while possible, establishing a similar support framework for Ukraine would necessitate careful negotiation and long-term strategic planning.
Where Does the European Union Stand?
The European Union has consistently supported Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The EU has condemned Russia’s annexation of Crimea and has not recognized the legitimacy of the 2014 Crimean status referendum.
In the context of the proposed U.S.-led peace deal, EU leaders have expressed skepticism, particularly regarding any agreement that legitimizes Russian territorial gains. The EU’s position underscores the importance of a comprehensive and inclusive peace process that respects international law and Ukraine’s sovereignty.
The EU’s continued support is crucial for Ukraine, both in terms of political backing and economic assistance, reinforcing the need for a multilateral approach to resolving the conflict.
Geopolitical interests
The ongoing negotiations involving President Trump, President Zelensky, and President Putin represent a complex interplay of geopolitical interests, national sovereignty, and international law. While the prospect of peace is a shared objective, the path to achieving it remains fraught with challenges.
President Zelensky’s unwavering commitment to Ukraine’s territorial integrity, coupled with his pursuit of robust security guarantees, reflects a strategic approach to safeguarding the nation’s future. Simultaneously, the U.S. and EU’s roles as mediators and supporters are pivotal in shaping a sustainable and just resolution to the conflict.
As the situation evolves, the international community’s engagement and adherence to principles of sovereignty and self-determination will be instrumental in determining the outcome of these high-stakes negotiations.
References:
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AP News. (2025). Trump calls for Ukraine and Russia to meet for ‘very high level’ talks. Retrieved
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HuffPost. (2025). De Crimea a la ‘guerra diplomática’ por la paz. Retrieved
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Forbes. (2025). Ukraine Won’t Accept Trump-Russia Deal They Don’t Participate In. Retrieved
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Euromaidan Press. (2024). Zelenskyy calls Trump’s alleged peace plan for Ukraine “very primitive”. Retrieved
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Ukrainska Pravda. (2023). US to provide Ukraine with an Israeli model of security guarantees – Zelenskyy. Retrieved
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Newsweek. (2023). Zelensky Pushing US for Long-term Security Deal Based On ‘Israeli Model’. Retrieved
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Wikipedia. (2025). 2014 Crimean status referendum. Retrieved
