Key Challenges Facing Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks

Wed Dec 31 2025 16:23:17 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Amid ongoing negotiations for a peace deal, significant sticking points threaten to obstruct progress in ending the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

While recent discussions between Russia, Ukraine, and the U.S. indicate potential progress toward a peace deal, several 'thorny' issues remain unresolved. The fate of occupied territories, particularly Donbas, and the control of Europe's largest nuclear power plant, Zaporizhzhia, pose significant challenges. Both leaders express mistrust, complicating negotiations as Ukraine seeks security guarantees and financial reparations from Russia. Without a compromise on these key issues, the path to peace remains precarious.

Recent discussions involving Russia, the United States, and Ukraine have hinted at a potential peace deal to end the nearly four-year-long conflict. However, as described by President Donald Trump, several 'thorny' issues remain that could thwart these efforts.

Two of the most contentious points in the negotiations revolve around territorial disputes and the fate of Europe's largest nuclear power plant, which is under Russian control. The Kremlin concurs with Trump that the discussions are nearing a conclusion. Yet, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s next engagement with European leaders could be pivotal, especially since any unresolved issues might jeopardize a comprehensive agreement.

Territorial Demands and Complications

Vladimir Putin has maintained his insistence on acquiring the entirety of Ukraine's industrial Donbas region, while Zelensky has proposed a compromise that includes the establishment of a demilitarized zone. Yet, Russian generals have reportedly claimed successful territorial gains, further complicating negotiations.

Zelensky has expressed the need for a demilitarized area, asserting, We can't just withdraw; it's out of our law. People live there, 300,000 people... We can't lose those people. Conversely, Putin’s government remains adamant about solidifying its claims in the region, heightening hostilities.

Control of Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant

Russia has controlled the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant since early in the conflict, with concerns about the facility's safety and operational status lingering. Plans for joint management with the U.S. and Ukraine have been deemed unrealistic by Kyiv, with Russian authority over the plant remaining a significant issue. Ukraine's proposals for demilitarization and management are met with skepticism by Moscow, leaving the fate of the plant uncertain.

Mistrust Fuels Conflict

Heightening tensions stem from a lack of mutual trust. Zelensky has openly doubted Putin’s intentions, asserting, I don't trust Russians and... I don't trust Putin. Both sides distrust each other, complicating the landscape for any potential agreement.

Funding and Security Guarantees

Apart from territorial issues, Kyiv is pressing for security assurances equivalent to NATO's response quality for potential future Russian aggression. Financial reparations for the estimated $800 billion in losses due to the war also complicate discussions, with Ukraine seeking contributions from Russia, which they have yet to negotiate.

Public Opinion and Future Votes

Zelensky cites public sentiment that suggests overwhelming support for peace, yet resistance against relinquishing territory in Donbas prevails. This climate raises the potential for a national referendum to legitimize any agreement, but this presents another sticking point in negotiations amidst rising tensions.

As talks continue, the overarching question remains whether the involved parties can navigate these complex, 'thorny' issues and build a foundation of trust to end the ongoing conflict.