Kremlin on Friday (Oct 16) said that it was in “full” agreement with the US President Donald Trump’s criticism of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky over stalled peace efforts as Europe’s deadliest war in modern history continues for more than four years. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov accused Zelensky of not taking responsibility and not wanting to enter a peaceful settlement process. This comes after Trump on Thursday (Oct 15) said that Zelensky was "not a good guy for us to deal with" and claimed that he does not want to help bring an end to the Russia-Ukraine war.“The fact that Zelensky doesn’t want to take responsibility and enter a peaceful settlement process is unambiguous,” Peskov told reporters during a briefing. “Here, we fully agree with President Trump’s point of view.”<h2>What did Trump say?</h2>In an interview with Newsmax, Trump claimed that the Ukrainian president “doesn’t want to settle” the ongoing war with Russia. “If they’re going to end up with a settlement of some kind, they’re not going to do it with him. He doesn’t want to settle. He says he wants to settle, but he doesn’t.”He added that while both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Zelensky would like to see the war end, “but I think I find Zelensky to be more difficult to deal with than Putin.”Trump also criticised the Obama and Biden administrations over their handling of the conflict, including Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea. He said the war had devastated Ukraine and reiterated his dissatisfaction with Zelensky.Putin has repeatedly demanded that Ukraine cede full control of the Donetsk region as a prerequisite for any ceasefire agreement – a condition Kyiv has consistently rejected. According to a Bloomberg report last month, Putin is expecting Russian forces to take full control of the Donetsk region by late February 2027.<h2>Zelensky-Trump rift grows</h2>The development comes as tensions between Kyiv and Washington continue to rise following a US-Russia diesel agreement. Zelensky has criticised the easing of restrictions on Russian diesel exports, arguing that it could benefit Moscow without securing concessions. The Ukrainian president earlier declared that Kyiv will no longer abide by US President Donald Trump’s energy ceasefire that demanded a halt to attacks on energy infrastructure.On October 11, Trump announced the energy ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, saying it was “effective immediately”. Zelensky denied knowledge of any such agreement but said that he would abide by it if Moscow did the same. However, Ukraine accused Russia of striking at least six of its energy infrastructure just hours after the announcement.Trump had repeatedly warned Kyiv against targeting Russia’s oil refineries, saying that it has led to a rise in fuel prices in the US ahead of the upcoming November 3 midterm elections. Meanwhile, reports suggested that US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner had also raised the possibility of limiting intelligence-sharing with Ukraine if the refinery attacks continued. A US official denied that a threat had been made.

The Kremlin has backed Trump’s criticism of Zelensky, accusing the Ukrainian leader of stalling peace talks as tensions over ending the Russia-Ukraine war continue to rise.

Kremlin on Friday (Oct 16) said that it was in “full” agreement with the US President Donald Trump’s criticism of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky over stalled peace efforts as Europe’s deadliest war in modern history continues for more than four years. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov accused Zelensky of not taking responsibility and not wanting to enter a peaceful settlement process. This comes after Trump on Thursday (Oct 15) said that Zelensky was "not a good guy for us to deal with" and claimed that he does not want to help bring an end to the Russia-Ukraine war. “The fact that Zelensky doesn’t want to take responsibility and enter a peaceful settlement process is unambiguous,” Peskov told reporters during a briefing. “Here, we fully agree with President Trump’s point of view.” What did Trump say? In an interview with Newsmax, Trump claimed that the Ukrainian president “doesn’t want to settle” the ongoing war with Russia. “If they’re going to end up with a settlement of some kind, they’re not going to do it with him. He doesn’t want to settle. He says he wants to settle, but he doesn’t.” He added that while both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Zelensky would like to see the war end, “but I think I find Zelensky to be more difficult to deal with than Putin.” Trump also criticised the Obama and Biden administrations over their handling of the conflict, including Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea. He said the war had devastated Ukraine and reiterated his dissatisfaction with Zelensky. Putin has repeatedly demanded that Ukraine cede full control of the Donetsk region as a prerequisite for any ceasefire agreement – a condition Kyiv has consistently rejected. According to a Bloomberg report last month, Putin is expecting Russian forces to take full control of the Donetsk region by late February 2027. Zelensky-Trump rift grows The development comes as tensions between Kyiv and Washington continue to rise following a US-Russia diesel agreement. Zelensky has criticised the easing of restrictions on Russian diesel exports, arguing that it could benefit Moscow without securing concessions. The Ukrainian president earlier declared that Kyiv will no longer abide by US President Donald Trump’s energy ceasefire that demanded a halt to attacks on energy infrastructure. On October 11, Trump announced the energy ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, saying it was “effective immediately”. Zelensky denied knowledge of any such agreement but said that he would abide by it if Moscow did the same. However, Ukraine accused Russia of striking at least six of its energy infrastructure just hours after the announcement. Trump had repeatedly warned Kyiv against targeting Russia’s oil refineries, saying that it has led to a rise in fuel prices in the US ahead of the upcoming November 3 midterm elections. Meanwhile, reports suggested that US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner had also raised the possibility of limiting intelligence-sharing with Ukraine if the refinery attacks continued. A US official denied that a threat had been made.

The Kremlin has backed Trump’s criticism of Zelensky, accusing the Ukrainian leader of stalling peace talks as tensions over ending the Russia-Ukraine war continue to rise.

‘We fully agree’: Kremlin backs Trump’s criticism of Zelensky over Russia-Ukraine peace

US President Donald Trump on Saturday called for Ukraine to elect a new president willing to agree to a peace deal, criticising Volodymyr Zelensky over Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil refineries that he said had contributed to rising diesel prices ahead of the US elections. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said he had told Zelensky he could continue military operations against Russia but warned him against targeting refineries. “He better damn well stop,” Trump said, adding that he believed “it's time for Ukraine to get a new president” who would agree to end the war.comes amid growing tensions between Washington and Kyiv over Ukraine’s campaign against Russia’s oil infrastructure, which has disrupted fuel supplies and added pressure to global energy markets. Ukraine has intensified long-range strikes on Russian refineries, seeking to weaken Moscow’s ability to finance and sustain its war effort. Kyiv has claimed its attacks have disabled 51 per cent of Russia’s oil-refining capacity.According to an Axios report, Trump decided to strike a deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin to supply diesel after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky ignored repeated American requests to halt refinery attacks. The report also said Trump’s envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, raised the possibility of cutting intelligence-sharing with Ukraine if the strikes continued, although a US official denied that a threat had been made.Trump announced an agreement for Russia to supply diesel to US and global markets amid soaring fuel prices ahead of the November 3 US midterm elections. Zelensky criticised the move, calling it “not fair and not honest” in an interview with Axios, and warned that easing sanctions could benefit Moscow without securing concessions.

US President Donald Trump urged Ukraine to elect a new leader willing to end the war, criticising Volodymyr Zelensky over strikes on Russian oil refineries that he linked to rising diesel prices.

US President Donald Trump on Saturday called for Ukraine to elect a new president willing to agree to a peace deal, criticising Volodymyr Zelensky over Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil refineries that he said had contributed to rising diesel prices ahead of the US elections. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said he had told Zelensky he could continue military operations against Russia but warned him against targeting refineries. “He better damn well stop,” Trump said, adding that he believed “it's time for Ukraine to get a new president” who would agree to end the war. comes amid growing tensions between Washington and Kyiv over Ukraine’s campaign against Russia’s oil infrastructure, which has disrupted fuel supplies and added pressure to global energy markets. Ukraine has intensified long-range strikes on Russian refineries, seeking to weaken Moscow’s ability to finance and sustain its war effort. Kyiv has claimed its attacks have disabled 51 per cent of Russia’s oil-refining capacity. According to an Axios report, Trump decided to strike a deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin to supply diesel after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky ignored repeated American requests to halt refinery attacks. The report also said Trump’s envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, raised the possibility of cutting intelligence-sharing with Ukraine if the strikes continued, although a US official denied that a threat had been made. Trump announced an agreement for Russia to supply diesel to US and global markets amid soaring fuel prices ahead of the November 3 US midterm elections. Zelensky criticised the move, calling it “not fair and not honest” in an interview with Axios, and warned that easing sanctions could benefit Moscow without securing concessions.

US President Donald Trump urged Ukraine to elect a new leader willing to end the war, criticising Volodymyr Zelensky over strikes on Russian oil refineries that he linked to rising diesel prices.

‘Time for Ukraine to get a new president’: Trump lashes out at Zelensky over Russia strikes

US President Donald Trump met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (Dec 28) at Mar-a-Lago and said that they were "getting a lot closer, maybe very close" to an agreement to end the war in Ukraine. He also had a telephonic conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Amid questions around &nbsp;the fate of the disputed Donbas region, a major query that came to the minds was why Zelensky and Trump met in &nbsp;Mar-a-Lago and not the White House.&nbsp;&nbsp;The holidays have begun in the US and though most of the official meetings between Trump and other foreign leaders are held at the Oval Office of the White House, this time the two global leaders met at Florida's Mar-a-Lago estate. This was so because Trump went to Florida's West Palm Beach on December 19 amid holiday season and has been there since. Most US presidents spend much of their year-ends at various holiday destinations, BBC reported, adding the example that Joe Biden was in the US Virgin Islands at around this time last year.&nbsp;<h2>Trump-Zelensky meet and update on Russia-Ukraine war</h2>Trump said that a deal was closer than ever to end Russia's invasion of Ukraine but reported no apparent breakthrough on the flashpoint issue of territory after new talks with the warring countries' leaders. Trump, who had promised a peace deal on day one of his nearly year-old presidency, said it would become clear within weeks whether it was possible to solve the conflict that has killed tens of thousands of people. Zelensky described a peace plan as 95 percent complete despite Russia unleashing major new attacks a day before on Kyiv's residential areas.&nbsp;"I really believe we're, Mr. President, probably closer than -- far closer than -- ever before with both parties," Trump said with Zelensky at his side in the tea room of his Mar-a-Lago estate. "Everybody wants it ended," Trump said. Zelensky looked on politely, only betraying the slightest look of disbelief as Trump told him that Putin, who ordered the February 2022 invasion that has included major attacks on infrastructure, "wants to see Ukraine succeed."&nbsp;Trump acknowledged continued disagreement between Kyiv and Moscow on territory. The current plan, revised after weeks of intense US-Ukrainian negotiations, would stop the war at the current frontlines in the eastern Donbas region and set up a demilitarized area, while Russia has long demanded territorial concessions. "It's unresolved, but it's getting a lot closer. That's a very tough issue, but one that I think will get resolved," Trump said. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-reveals-20-point-peace-plan-draft-to-end-russia-ukraine-war-here-s-what-it-states-1766571732916">CLICK here to see the 20-point peace plan draft</a>&nbsp;

Donald Trump met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at Mar-a-Lago on December 28, saying a Ukraine war deal may be near. The meeting was held in Florida as Trump is spending the holiday season there, a period when US presidents often conduct diplomacy outside the White House.

US President Donald Trump met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (Dec 28) at Mar-a-Lago and said that they were "getting a lot closer, maybe very close" to an agreement to end the war in Ukraine. He also had a telephonic conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Amid questions around the fate of the disputed Donbas region, a major query that came to the minds was why Zelensky and Trump met in Mar-a-Lago and not the White House. The holidays have begun in the US and though most of the official meetings between Trump and other foreign leaders are held at the Oval Office of the White House, this time the two global leaders met at Florida's Mar-a-Lago estate. This was so because Trump went to Florida's West Palm Beach on December 19 amid holiday season and has been there since. Most US presidents spend much of their year-ends at various holiday destinations, BBC reported, adding the example that Joe Biden was in the US Virgin Islands at around this time last year. Trump-Zelensky meet and update on Russia-Ukraine war Trump said that a deal was closer than ever to end Russia's invasion of Ukraine but reported no apparent breakthrough on the flashpoint issue of territory after new talks with the warring countries' leaders. Trump, who had promised a peace deal on day one of his nearly year-old presidency, said it would become clear within weeks whether it was possible to solve the conflict that has killed tens of thousands of people. Zelensky described a peace plan as 95 percent complete despite Russia unleashing major new attacks a day before on Kyiv's residential areas. "I really believe we're, Mr. President, probably closer than -- far closer than -- ever before with both parties," Trump said with Zelensky at his side in the tea room of his Mar-a-Lago estate. "Everybody wants it ended," Trump said. Zelensky looked on politely, only betraying the slightest look of disbelief as Trump told him that Putin, who ordered the February 2022 invasion that has included major attacks on infrastructure, "wants to see Ukraine succeed." Trump acknowledged continued disagreement between Kyiv and Moscow on territory. The current plan, revised after weeks of intense US-Ukrainian negotiations, would stop the war at the current frontlines in the eastern Donbas region and set up a demilitarized area, while Russia has long demanded territorial concessions. "It's unresolved, but it's getting a lot closer. That's a very tough issue, but one that I think will get resolved," Trump said. CLICK here to see the 20-point peace plan draft

Donald Trump met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at Mar-a-Lago on December 28, saying a Ukraine war deal may be near. The meeting was held in Florida as Trump is spending the holiday season there, a period when US presidents often conduct diplomacy outside the White House.

Here's the REAL reason why Trump chose Mar-a-Lago to meet Ukraine's Zelensky instead of White House?

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Dec 28) said that Ukraine and Russia are getting “closer” to settling the status of the disputed territory of Donbas, but added that it remains a challenge after talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Trump said that it could be clear within a “few weeks” if the war in Ukraine can end following discussions at his Mar-a-Lago estate. He further stated that talks with European leaders were possible in Washington to push a peace deal.“I really believe we’re, Mr President, probably closer than – far closer than – ever before with both parties,” Trump told reporters alongside Zelensky in the tea room of his Mar-a-Lago estate. “Everybody wants it ended.”He further added, “If it went really well, you know, maybe a few weeks, and if it went poorly, longer.”<h2>Putin ‘wants to see Ukraine succeed’</h2>The US president also claimed that Russian President Vladimir Putin “wants to see Ukraine succeed.” Trump had spoken to Putin on a call ahead of his meeting with Zelensky.“President Putin was very generous in his feeling toward Ukraine succeeding, including supplying energy, electricity and other things at very low prices,” Trump said.Meanwhile, Kremlin diplomatic advisor Yuri Ushakov said that Trump and Putin both agree that a “temporary ceasefire” would “merely prolong the conflict and risk a renewed escalation on the battlefield.”Following their talks, Trump and Zelensky also spoke with key European leaders, with the Ukrainian leader mentioning that they could return jointly for talks with Trump in Washington in January.<h2>Trump offers to address Ukraine’s parliament</h2>The US president also said that he has offered to address Ukraine’s parliament to push the latest peace plan forward.“I’m not sure that it would be really necessary, but if it would help save 25,000 lives a month, or whatever it may be, I would certainly be willing to do that,” he said.Zelensky said that the peace plan laid out by Trump was “90 per cent agreed”, adding that US-Ukraine security guarantees were “100 per cent agreed.”

The US president also said that he has offered to address Ukraine’s parliament to push the latest peace plan forward.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Dec 28) said that Ukraine and Russia are getting “closer” to settling the status of the disputed territory of Donbas, but added that it remains a challenge after talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Trump said that it could be clear within a “few weeks” if the war in Ukraine can end following discussions at his Mar-a-Lago estate. He further stated that talks with European leaders were possible in Washington to push a peace deal. “I really believe we’re, Mr President, probably closer than – far closer than – ever before with both parties,” Trump told reporters alongside Zelensky in the tea room of his Mar-a-Lago estate. “Everybody wants it ended.” He further added, “If it went really well, you know, maybe a few weeks, and if it went poorly, longer.” Putin ‘wants to see Ukraine succeed’ The US president also claimed that Russian President Vladimir Putin “wants to see Ukraine succeed.” Trump had spoken to Putin on a call ahead of his meeting with Zelensky. “President Putin was very generous in his feeling toward Ukraine succeeding, including supplying energy, electricity and other things at very low prices,” Trump said. Meanwhile, Kremlin diplomatic advisor Yuri Ushakov said that Trump and Putin both agree that a “temporary ceasefire” would “merely prolong the conflict and risk a renewed escalation on the battlefield.” Following their talks, Trump and Zelensky also spoke with key European leaders, with the Ukrainian leader mentioning that they could return jointly for talks with Trump in Washington in January. Trump offers to address Ukraine’s parliament The US president also said that he has offered to address Ukraine’s parliament to push the latest peace plan forward. “I’m not sure that it would be really necessary, but if it would help save 25,000 lives a month, or whatever it may be, I would certainly be willing to do that,” he said. Zelensky said that the peace plan laid out by Trump was “90 per cent agreed”, adding that US-Ukraine security guarantees were “100 per cent agreed.”

The US president also said that he has offered to address Ukraine’s parliament to push the latest peace plan forward.

Trump sets no deadline for Russia-Ukraine war, says ‘few weeks’ could decide its fate

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived at Miami airport for his high-stakes meeting with US President Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago to discuss the latest 20-point peace plan. Ahead of the meeting, Zelensky expressed optimism and hoped for some result before the new year. “These are some of the most active diplomatic days of the year right now, and a lot can be decided before the New Year,” Zelensky said in a post on the social platform X early on Sunday, hours before his meeting in Florida. “We are doing everything toward this, but whether decisions will be made depends on our partners—those who help Ukraine, and those who put pressure on Russia so that Russians feel the consequences of their own aggression,” he continued.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Zelensky has arrived in Miami for a meeting with Trump. <a href="https://t.co/ifvrExxAmC">pic.twitter.com/ifvrExxAmC</a>&mdash; KyivPost (@KyivPost) <a href="https://twitter.com/KyivPost/status/2005286096310263954?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-eu-main-obstacles-to-peace-in-russia-ukraine-talks-foreign-minister-sergey-lavrov-1766936109661">Europe, EU ‘main obstacles to peace’ in Russia-Ukraine talks: Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Zelensky said Russia launched more than 2,100 attack drones, approximately 800 guided aerial bombs and 94 missiles this week.He said Ukrainian first responders are working to address the attacks on civilians and energy infrastructure, “but it is just as important that sanctions against Russia work, that all forms of political pressure for its aggression are applied, that Ukraine receives air defence missiles, and that we all finalize the formats of steps that will end this war and guarantee security.”“These are exactly the steps we will be discussing with our partners today,” he continued.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yearender-2025-pm-modi-s-foreign-visits-redefine-india-s-global-outreach-and-influence-1766919586333">Yearender 2025: PM Modi’s foreign visits redefine India’s global outreach and influence</a>&nbsp;Zelensky and Trump will hold a phone call with European leaders during their meeting in Florida, said a Reuters report, citing a spokesperson for the Ukrainian president.&nbsp;Zelensky said he has held a “detailed” phone call with the UK PM Keir Starmer. “We discussed preparations for the meeting with President Trump, as well as all our contacts with European partners,” he wrote on X, saying he very much values the support from the UK.“I informed him on the situation on the frontline and on the consequences of Russian strikes.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yearender-2025-the-year-of-wars-tariff-turmoil-and-climate-disasters-1766568207775">Yearender 2025: The year of wars, tariff turmoil, and climate disasters</a>&nbsp;The UK has been one of the leading donors to Ukraine, alongside the US and Germany, and has provided lots of military equipment, including tanks, air defence systems and artillery to help in the fight against Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Russia launched more than 2,100 attack drones, approximately 800 guided aerial bombs, and 94 missiles this week. He said Ukrainian first responders are working to address the attacks on civilians and energy infrastructure

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived at Miami airport for his high-stakes meeting with US President Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago to discuss the latest 20-point peace plan. Ahead of the meeting, Zelensky expressed optimism and hoped for some result before the new year. “These are some of the most active diplomatic days of the year right now, and a lot can be decided before the New Year,” Zelensky said in a post on the social platform X early on Sunday, hours before his meeting in Florida. “We are doing everything toward this, but whether decisions will be made depends on our partners—those who help Ukraine, and those who put pressure on Russia so that Russians feel the consequences of their own aggression,” he continued.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Russia launched more than 2,100 attack drones, approximately 800 guided aerial bombs, and 94 missiles this week. He said Ukrainian first responders are working to address the attacks on civilians and energy infrastructure

‘A lot can be decided before the New Year’: Zelensky lands in Florida for Trump peace talks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has embarked on his journey to the US for a meeting with his counterpart Donald Trump in Florida to discuss the latest proposal to end the war in Ukraine. Ahead of meeting Trump on Sunday, Zelensky will speak with EU leaders and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen on the phone. Zelensky told reporters aboard the flight to Florida that he will be stopping over in Canada on the way and meeting Prime Minister Mark Carney. Zelensky said he and PM Carney would speak by video call with European allies later on Saturday. The European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen, will take part in the call with Zelensky, said a commission spokesperson.&nbsp;In a post on social media, Zelensky thanked his allies for providing air defence supplies, adding that diplomacy would “not work without security”. “We will be discussing this in particular today and tomorrow with European leaders, with the Prime Minister of Canada, and with the President of the United States,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Another Russian attack is still ongoing: since last night, there have been almost 500 drones – a large number of “shaheds” – as well as 40 missiles, including Kinzhals. The primary target is Kyiv – energy facilities and civilian infrastructure. Regrettably, there have been hits,… <a href="https://t.co/OxBntAUgla">pic.twitter.com/OxBntAUgla</a>&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/2004835962069676324?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinks-in-congress-exposed-digvijaya-singh-shares-old-photo-of-pm-modi-stirs-row-with-bjp-rss-praise-1766839574664">Chinks in Congress exposed?: Digvijaya Singh shares old photo of PM Modi, stirs row with BJP, RSS praise</a><h2>Trump, Zelensky to discuss 20-point draft peace plan</h2>&nbsp;When they meet in Florida on Sunday, Trump and Zelensky will discuss a 20-point proposal to end the war. It’s an updated version of the earlier 28-point plan drawn up by US envoy Steve Witkoff and Russian negotiators.Trump has kept his cards close to his chest, but told Politico earlier this week, “I think it’s going to go good with [Zelensky]. I think it’s going to go good with Putin.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-to-launch-mgnrega-bachao-campaign-on-jan-5-demand-repeal-of-vb-g-ram-g-act-kharge-1766830777227">Congress to launch ‘MGNREGA Bachao’ campaign on Jan 5, demand repeal of VB-G RAM G Act: Kharge</a>&nbsp;<h2>Kyiv strikes reveal Putin’s true mindset: Zelensky</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, a third of Kyiv’s population is without heating and hundreds of thousands of people were battling freezing temperatures after a Russian drone and missile barrage on the Ukrainian capital cut off power supplies.Zelensky said Moscow had used nearly 500 drones and 40 missiles, including ballistic missiles, in the overnight attack. “The primary target is Kyiv – energy facilities and civilian infrastructure,” he said in a post on X.The intense overnight strikes lasted 10 hours and came as Zelensky headed to Florida for a meeting with Donald Trump on Sunday to discuss a plan for ending nearly four years of fighting.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yearender-2025-the-year-of-wars-tariff-turmoil-and-climate-disasters-1766568207775">Yearender 2025: The year of wars, tariff turmoil, and climate disasters</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘Russia trying to use every opportunity to inflict more pain’</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;In a post about the overnight attacks, Zelensky said that while world leaders were focused on the bigger picture of ending the war, Ukraine needs help right now.“Supplies for air defence must be sufficient and timely, especially now, when we need them most. There must be no delays in protecting lives”, he warned. “Diplomacy will not work without security.”Zelensky repeated his claim that Russia does “not want to end the war and is trying to use every opportunity to inflict more pain on Ukraine.”&nbsp;Kyiv authorities said that at least two people were killed and dozens injured following overnight Russian strikes on the Ukrainian capital.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney would speak by video call with European allies later on Saturday. The European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen, will take part in the call with Zelensky, confirmed a spokesperson.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has embarked on his journey to the US for a meeting with his counterpart Donald Trump in Florida to discuss the latest proposal to end the war in Ukraine. Ahead of meeting Trump on Sunday, Zelensky will speak with EU leaders and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen on the phone. Zelensky told reporters aboard the flight to Florida that he will be stopping over in Canada on the way and meeting Prime Minister Mark Carney. Zelensky said he and PM Carney would speak by video call with European allies later on Saturday. The European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen, will take part in the call with Zelensky, said a commission spokesperson. In a post on social media, Zelensky thanked his allies for providing air defence supplies, adding that diplomacy would “not work without security”. “We will be discussing this in particular today and tomorrow with European leaders, with the Prime Minister of Canada, and with the President of the United States,” he said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney would speak by video call with European allies later on Saturday. The European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen, will take part in the call with Zelensky, confirmed a spokesperson.

‘Diplomacy would not work without security’: Zelensky to speak with allies before Trump meeting

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (Dec 26) said that he would soon meet US President Donald Trump as part of efforts to end the war with Russia, suggesting that “a lot can be decided before the New Year”. This comes after recent discussions held between US and Ukrainian officials, during which the negotiators drafted a 20-point plan to end the war. The proposal has been sent to Moscow for feedback.“We are not losing a single day,” Zelensky wrote on X. “We have agreed on a meeting at the highest level – with President Trump in the near future. A lot can be decided before the New Year. Glory to Ukraine!”Under the 20-point plan, the frontline would freeze. It would also remove a requirement for Kyiv to legally renounce its bid to join NATO, Zelensky said in a press briefing on Wednesday (Dec 24).Meanwhile, Moscow has shown little inclination that it would abandon its hardline territorial demands that Ukraine withdraw from the eastern Donbas and relinquish its NATO ambitions.Moscow said that it was “formulating its position” on the plan, but declined to comment on the specifics of it.On Thursday (Dec 25), Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said progress to end the war was “slow but regular.”<h2>Some peace documents ‘fully prepared’: Zelensky</h2>Zelensky said on Thursday that some documents of the peace deal are “fully prepared” after he held discussions with US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.“It is important if we succeed in organising what we discussed today with President Trump's envoys. Some documents, as I see it, are nearly ready, and some documents are fully prepared. Of course, there is still work to be done on sensitive issues. But together with the American team, we understand how to put all of this in place. The weeks ahead may also be intensive. Thank you, America,” Zelensky said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (Dec 26) said that he would soon meet US President Donald Trump as part of efforts to end the war with Russia. 



Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (Dec 26) said that he would soon meet US President Donald Trump as part of efforts to end the war with Russia, suggesting that “a lot can be decided before the New Year”. This comes after recent discussions held between US and Ukrainian officials, during which the negotiators drafted a 20-point plan to end the war. The proposal has been sent to Moscow for feedback. “We are not losing a single day,” Zelensky wrote on X. “We have agreed on a meeting at the highest level – with President Trump in the near future. A lot can be decided before the New Year. Glory to Ukraine!” Under the 20-point plan, the frontline would freeze. It would also remove a requirement for Kyiv to legally renounce its bid to join NATO, Zelensky said in a press briefing on Wednesday (Dec 24). Meanwhile, Moscow has shown little inclination that it would abandon its hardline territorial demands that Ukraine withdraw from the eastern Donbas and relinquish its NATO ambitions. Moscow said that it was “formulating its position” on the plan, but declined to comment on the specifics of it. On Thursday (Dec 25), Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said progress to end the war was “slow but regular.” Some peace documents ‘fully prepared’: Zelensky Zelensky said on Thursday that some documents of the peace deal are “fully prepared” after he held discussions with US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. “It is important if we succeed in organising what we discussed today with President Trump's envoys. Some documents, as I see it, are nearly ready, and some documents are fully prepared. Of course, there is still work to be done on sensitive issues. But together with the American team, we understand how to put all of this in place. The weeks ahead may also be intensive. Thank you, America,” Zelensky said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (Dec 26) said that he would soon meet US President Donald Trump as part of efforts to end the war with Russia.

Another Zelensky-Trump meet soon? Ukrainian leader says agreed on ‘highest level’ meeting

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Nov 21) said that his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky will “have to like” a US plan if he wants to end the war with Russia. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian President has warned that accepting the plan would risk Ukraine losing its dignity and freedom.&nbsp;&nbsp;“He’ll have to like it, and if he doesn’t like it, then you know, they should just keep fighting,” Trump told reporters at the White House. “At some point he’s going to have to accept something,” he added during the Oval Office meeting with New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani.&nbsp;Zelensky on Friday said that he would not “betray” his country over the 28-point document, which Kyiv view as favourable to the Kremlin.&nbsp;Over the months, Trump has grown increasingly frustrated over repeated failures to end the war in Ukraine. Earlier the same day, Trump set a November 27 deadline, the day of the American Thanksgiving holiday, for Ukraine to accept the US plan to end the war with Russia.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I’ve had a lot of deadlines, but if things are working well, you tend to extend the deadlines. But Thursday is, we think, an appropriate time,” Trump said in an interview with Fox News Radio.&nbsp;The plan laid by the Trump administration demands Ukraine give up a swathe of eastern territory to Russia and cut the size of its army, AFP reported, citing a draft. Meanwhile, Kyiv has vowed that it would never join NATO or accept Western peacekeepers, although European warplanes would be positioned in Poland.&nbsp;Trump has said that if the war continues, the Ukrainians would still end up giving away its terrotories to Russia under the peace plan. Speaking of Ukrainian forces, Trump said, “Say what you want, they were very brave.” He added that Russian President Vladimir Putin “is not looking for more war.”

Meanwhile, the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned that accepting the plan would risk Ukraine losing its dignity and freedom. 

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Nov 21) said that his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky will “have to like” a US plan if he wants to end the war with Russia. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian President has warned that accepting the plan would risk Ukraine losing its dignity and freedom. “He’ll have to like it, and if he doesn’t like it, then you know, they should just keep fighting,” Trump told reporters at the White House. “At some point he’s going to have to accept something,” he added during the Oval Office meeting with New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani. Zelensky on Friday said that he would not “betray” his country over the 28-point document, which Kyiv view as favourable to the Kremlin. Over the months, Trump has grown increasingly frustrated over repeated failures to end the war in Ukraine. Earlier the same day, Trump set a November 27 deadline, the day of the American Thanksgiving holiday, for Ukraine to accept the US plan to end the war with Russia. “I’ve had a lot of deadlines, but if things are working well, you tend to extend the deadlines. But Thursday is, we think, an appropriate time,” Trump said in an interview with Fox News Radio. The plan laid by the Trump administration demands Ukraine give up a swathe of eastern territory to Russia and cut the size of its army, AFP reported, citing a draft. Meanwhile, Kyiv has vowed that it would never join NATO or accept Western peacekeepers, although European warplanes would be positioned in Poland. Trump has said that if the war continues, the Ukrainians would still end up giving away its terrotories to Russia under the peace plan. Speaking of Ukrainian forces, Trump said, “Say what you want, they were very brave.” He added that Russian President Vladimir Putin “is not looking for more war.”

Meanwhile, the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned that accepting the plan would risk Ukraine losing its dignity and freedom.&nbsp;

‘He’ll have to like it, and if he doesn’t…’: Trump demands Zelensky accept US plan to end Russia-Ukraine war

WION USA Direct: Kevin Mcaleese WION Correspondent speaks on Trump-Zelensky call row.

WION USA Direct: Kevin Mcaleese, WION Correspondent on Trump-Zelensky call row

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Zelensky-Trump meet soon? Ukrainian leader says agreed on highest level meeting

‘He’ll have to like it, if he doesn’t…’: Trump demands Zelensky accept US plan

WION USA Direct: Kevin Mcaleese, WION Correspondent on Trump-Zelensky call row