In a significant development for international relations, US President Donald Trump reported having "very good talks" with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. This meeting, which lasted approximately one hour, has raised hopes for a potential resolution to the ongoing war in Ukraine. Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, expressed optimism about finalizing a deal that could bring an end to the conflict.
Following their meeting, Trump stated that the discussions had focused on a singular issue, which he believes is solvable. He emphasized the desire from all sides to conclude the war, saying, "I think we've got it down to one issue and we have discussed iterations of that issue." Witkoff is scheduled to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin later today, indicating that negotiations are ongoing and multi-faceted.
While specific details about the remaining issues were not disclosed, recent talks have concentrated on the future status of Ukraine's industrial heartland in Donbas. A proposal has been floated for establishing a demilitarized and economically free zone in exchange for security guarantees for Kyiv. Witkoff stated, "If both sides want to solve this, we're going to get it solved," reflecting a commitment to finding a peaceful resolution.
President Zelensky made a considerable effort to attend the forum, traveling overnight to Davos despite the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. He initially canceled his trip to manage the aftermath of recent Russian strikes on Kyiv's power infrastructure, which have left many residents without heating, water, or electricity during the harsh winter months. Thousands of apartment buildings in Kyiv remain without heating, raising humanitarian concerns as the conflict continues.
There is growing concern in Kyiv regarding Trump's recent tensions with European NATO allies, particularly over discussions surrounding Greenland, which some fear may divert his attention from crucial issues like the war in Ukraine. After a previous meeting with Trump in Miami, Zelensky mentioned that a 20-point U.S. plan to end the war was "90% ready," indicating progress in diplomatic negotiations.
Zelensky's proposals include the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from the 25% of the Donetsk region that remains under their control, suggesting a pullback of up to 40km (25 miles) to pave the way for the establishment of an economic zone. This move is contingent upon reciprocal actions from Russia. Moreover, Zelensky highlighted the critical issue of future control over the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, which has been under Russian control since March 2022, as a major sticking point in negotiations.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed on Thursday that discussions with American envoys will continue regarding the Ukrainian crisis and related matters, though he refrained from commenting on whether he shares Witkoff's optimism about reaching a deal. Additionally, it remains uncertain whether Putin will join Trump's proposed Board of Peace focused on Gaza.
At the World Economic Forum, Zelensky aimed to finalize two critical documents with Trump concerning future security guarantees and economic prosperity for Ukraine. However, he noted that "there is one mile left to finalize these documents," leaving room for uncertainty about any potential agreements being signed during their meeting.
As the situation develops, the head of Ukraine's national security and defense council, Rustem Umerov, mentioned that discussions in Davos had included vital topics such as economic development, post-war recovery, and security guarantees, highlighting the seriousness with which Ukraine is approaching these negotiations.