Zelensky Shifts Tone, Expresses Personal Gratitude to Trump Amid Peace Talks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky publicly thanked Donald Trump on Sunday. This followed sharp criticism from the U.S. President about Ukraine’s lack of gratitude. The exchange occurred during sensitive Geneva negotiations to end the war with Russia.

Zelensky’s conciliatory message marked a clear shift in diplomatic tone. It aimed to ease tensions after Trump’s social media post accused Kyiv of showing “zero gratitude” for a new American peace proposal.

Geneva Negotiations Show Progress on US Peace Blueprint

As the leaders exchanged public statements, their teams were meeting in Switzerland. Negotiators worked to refine a 28-point U.S. draft peace plan. According to AFP, Ukrainian officials reported the latest version showed movement toward their key priorities.

The original American blueprint had concerned European allies. It initially required Ukraine to cede territory and abandon its NATO ambitions. The revised framework now reportedly includes broad security guarantees for Kyiv. It also proposes using frozen Russian assets for Ukraine’s reconstruction.

Trump’s Thanksgiving Deadline Adds Pressure to Talks

The Trump administration has set a soft deadline for a deal. They want an agreement by Thanksgiving Day on November 27. This timeline adds significant pressure to the ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Any final agreement will ultimately require approval from both Washington and Moscow. The progress in Geneva, however, is seen as a critical step. It could pave the way for direct high-level talks between the involved nations.

The public exchange underscores the fragile nature of the current diplomacy. A final resolution hinges on continued compromise from all sides involved in the conflict.

Thought you’d like to know-

What did Trump originally say about Ukraine?

President Trump used his Truth Social platform to voice frustration. He stated Ukraine’s leadership had shown “ZERO GRATITUDE” for the latest U.S. efforts to broker a peace deal.

How did President Zelensky respond?

Zelensky posted a conciliatory message on social media. He expressed gratitude to the U.S. and personally to President Trump for military aid like Javelin missiles that have saved lives.

What is the status of the peace talks?

Negotiators from the U.S. and Ukraine are meeting in Geneva. Officials described the talks as productive and are working to finalize a 28-point draft agreement.

What was the initial concern with the US peace plan?

The original draft raised concerns by conceding to several Russian demands. These included Ukraine ceding territory and pledging not to join the NATO alliance.

Is there a deadline for the peace deal?

The Trump administration has set a soft target of Thanksgiving, November 27. This deadline could be flexible if negotiations continue to show positive momentum.