‘Coalition of Willing’ to Hold Talks on Ukraine Security Guarantees in Thursday Meeting – As It Happened
As the war between Ukraine and Russia stretches into its fourth year, fresh discussions about peace negotiations have emerged once again in late 2025. Talks seek an end to the devastating conflict that has wrought immense human loss and geopolitical upheaval. Yet deep divisions, ongoing hostilities, and complex international interests continue to cast a long shadow over prospects for a swift resolution.
Recent Diplomatic Moves and the Role of Trump
After renewed energy following President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit to Washington and meetings with European leaders, momentum toward peace has slowed significantly. Former U.S. President Donald Trump, who returned to office in 2025, remains vocal about his optimism for a “quick victory” and a negotiated settlement. Trump publicly supports some Russian demands, creating tensions with European and Ukrainian officials who emphasize Ukraine’s sovereignty and security guarantees.
Ukrainian officials are reportedly pushing for a trilateral summit involving Zelenskyy, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Trump, believing a joint U.S.-Ukraine pressure could bring Putin to the negotiating table. So far, however, progress has been incremental and uneven.
Outstanding Issues Blocking a Breakthrough
Key stumbling blocks remain unresolved. Russia demands recognition of its annexations of Ukrainian territory and security assurances preventing Ukraine’s future NATO membership. Ukraine insists on a full Russian withdrawal from occupied lands, war crime accountability, and restoration of displaced citizens. Western allies, backing Ukraine, remain reluctant to offer the security guarantees Russia seeks.
These fundamental disagreements, combined with ongoing Russian military offensives and retaliatory strikes, have exhausted diplomatic channels. Both sides continue hostilities even as diplomatic rhetoric suggests willingness to negotiate.
Putin’s Perspective and International Dynamics
Russian President Vladimir Putin has reiterated that Russia’s security concerns, particularly NATO’s eastward expansion, must be addressed before peace is possible. Speaking at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit, Putin blamed Western policies for the war’s prolongation and emphasized Russia’s demands for Ukraine’s neutrality, demilitarization, and recognition of annexed regions.
Meanwhile, Russia has continued attacks targeting Ukrainian infrastructure, asserting these are strikes against military assets and not civilians. This duality of diplomacy and aggression complicates efforts to establish trust.
The Path Forward: Ceasefire and Peace Prospects
Inside Kyiv and among international observers, guarded hope persists for a potential ceasefire and eventual peace deal. Ukrainian officials seek a summit within September 2025, with many advocating for a trilateral format to maximize pressure on Moscow. The establishment of security guarantees and a verifiable ceasefire are seen as essential first steps.
Experts warn, however, that absent compromises on core issues, the conflict could become a protracted war of attrition lasting months or even years longer. The stakes remain profound—not just for Ukraine’s future, but for international norms surrounding sovereignty, security alliances, and geopolitical balance.