Trump Signals Breakthrough After Berlin Talks
Former US President Donald Trump has claimed that an agreement to end Russia’s war on Ukraine is now “closer than ever,” following intensive diplomatic talks held in Berlin. However, officials involved in the discussions caution that deep disagreements — especially over territory — still stand in the way of a final deal.
Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump said he held “long and very productive” conversations with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as well as leaders from France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and NATO. According to Trump, European leaders are united in their desire to bring the war to an end.
European and US Leaders Push Security Guarantees
The Berlin meetings brought together Zelenskyy, a US delegation led by envoy Steve Witkoff, Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, and senior European leaders. Talks focused on potential security arrangements that could protect Ukraine if a ceasefire or peace agreement is reached.
European leaders confirmed their commitment to providing strong, long-term security guarantees, including a European-led multinational force operating inside Ukraine, with logistical and strategic backing from the United States. The proposed force would also help rebuild Ukraine’s military, secure its airspace, and protect key sea routes.
NATO Membership vs Security Assurances
Ukraine has signalled it may be willing to suspend its ambition to join NATO — but only in exchange for binding and clearly defined Western security guarantees. Zelenskyy stressed that Kyiv needs full clarity on these guarantees before making any decisions about territorial control.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz described the US proposals presented in Berlin as “considerable,” adding that Ukraine alone has the right to decide on any territorial concessions. “There are no shortcuts,” he said, warning that peace cannot be imposed from outside.
Frozen Russian Assets and New Sanctions
Alongside peace efforts, European Union leaders are debating whether to use frozen Russian assets to help finance Ukraine’s defence and reconstruction. Merz warned that EU states must share the risks involved or face long-term reputational damage.
Meanwhile, the EU has introduced new sanctions targeting companies and individuals accused of helping Russia evade restrictions on oil exports — a key source of funding for Moscow’s war effort.
Moscow Responds as Fighting Continues
In Moscow, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said President Vladimir Putin remains open to peace talks but rejected what he described as “temporary pauses” or deceptive arrangements.
On the battlefield, the conflict shows no sign of slowing. Ukraine reported a large overnight drone attack by Russia, while Moscow claimed to have intercepted dozens of Ukrainian drones. Kyiv also said its naval drones struck a Russian submarine in the Black Sea, as both sides continue to use military pressure alongside diplomacy.
Is Peace Truly Within Reach?
Despite optimistic statements from Washington, analysts warn that unresolved issues — especially territorial control and enforcement of ceasefire guarantees — could still derail negotiations.
Do you believe the Berlin talks mark a real turning point toward peace in Ukraine, or is the war entering another phase of prolonged diplomacy and fighting?
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