Trump claims final say on Ukraine deal ahead of Zelensky meeting

Washington/Kyiv: US President Donald Trump has asserted his absolute authority over the proposed peace framework with Ukraine, stating in an interview with ‘Politico’ that President Volodymyr Zelensky "doesn't have anything until I approve it." The remarks come just two days before the two leaders are scheduled to meet in Florida to negotiate an end to the nearly four-year conflict.

The high-stakes discussion is expected to focus on a new 20-point peace plan. According to reports, the framework includes proposals for a demilitarised zone, future management of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, territorial control of the Donbas region, and US security guarantees once the war concludes.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, President Zelensky confirmed that the meeting is set for Sunday in Florida. He indicated that the peace plan is currently 90 per cent ready and that several documents outlining security guarantees have already been drafted.

However, the Ukrainian President stressed that the agreement involves four distinct parties—Ukraine, the United States, Russia, and Europe—and essentially cannot be signed without the participation of Russia and European partners.

Zelensky expressed optimism that significant decisions could be reached before the New Year. "We have agreed on a meeting at the highest level—with President Trump in the near future," Zelensky stated on Telegram. This follows three days of preparatory talks held last week in Miami involving US, Ukrainian, and European representatives.

(Inputs from IANS)