What’s Next for Ukraine? Insights from Russian Diplomats and Zelensky's Peace Proposal

Moscow's Perspective on Ukraine's Peace Efforts

Moscow: A Russian official has indicated that the crisis resolution strategy being suggested by Kyiv is markedly different from the one being developed by Moscow and Washington.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov stated on the '60 Minutes' program that while a settlement seemed close, the negotiation process is being obstructed by imposed deadlines and attempts to derail discussions.

Ryabkov expressed, "I believe December 25, 2025, will be remembered as a pivotal moment when we genuinely approached a resolution, but whether we can finalize an agreement hinges on the political willingness of the opposing side."

In response to comments from US NATO Representative Matthew Whitaker regarding a 90-day timeline to end the conflict, Ryabkov remarked that establishing specific deadlines does not aid in achieving a peaceful resolution.

He emphasized that a significant breakthrough in negotiations must occur in an environment where Kyiv and its backers, especially in the European Union, are intensifying efforts to undermine the process.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Friday his readiness to present a peace plan for a referendum, contingent on Russia agreeing to a ceasefire lasting at least 60 days, as reported by Axios.

During a phone interview with Axios, Zelensky mentioned his desire to negotiate a more favorable territorial arrangement. However, if the plan requires a challenging decision on territorial issues, he believes the best course of action would be to submit the entire 20-point proposal to a referendum, according to Xinhua news agency.

In related news, US President Donald Trump is scheduled to meet with Ukrainian President Zelensky in Florida on Sunday, as Kyiv advances its new 20-point peace initiative aimed at concluding Russia's nearly four-year conflict in Ukraine.

The White House confirmed that Trump would meet Zelensky at Palm Beach, Florida, on December 28.

Ahead of their meeting, Trump positioned himself as the ultimate decision-maker regarding any potential agreement between Ukraine and Russia, expressing caution about Zelensky's recent proposal.

"He doesn’t have anything until I approve it," Trump stated in an interview with POLITICO. "So we’ll see what he’s got."