Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in a New Year’s Eve address that Ukraine is now roughly “10 % away” from reaching a peace deal to end the nearly four-year war with Russia — but stressed that the unresolved issues are decisive and that Kyiv will not accept a weak agreement that might only prolong the conflict.
In a video message posted on his official Telegram channel late Wednesday, Zelensky described the current state of negotiations as “90 % ready,” with the final ten percent representing the most critical and contentious elements. He underscored that these remaining points will “determine the fate of peace, the fate of Ukraine and Europe.”
“We want an end to the war, but not the end of Ukraine,” Zelensky said, emphasizing that Kyiv seeks a durable peace that secures Ukrainian sovereignty and security, rather than a premature settlement that rewards Russian aggression. Anadolu Ajansı
No Peace “At Any Cost”
Zelensky reiterated that although Ukrainians are exhausted by years of conflict, this does not mean Kyiv is prepared to make dangerous concessions. He insisted his signature will only go on a strong agreement backed by solid guarantees — not a weak deal that merely pauses fighting.
“Any signature placed on weak agreements only fuels the war… My signature will be placed on a strong agreement.” Anadolu Ajansı
Diplomatic Momentum and Remaining Divides
International diplomatic efforts — particularly those led by the United States and European partners — have intensified in recent weeks to push peace talks forward. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and other Western security advisers held calls with Ukrainian negotiators and European counterparts to discuss next steps, including security guarantees and post-war frameworks.
However, deep disagreements remain, especially over territorial issues in Russian-occupied regions. Kyiv wants strict security guarantees and a settlement that ensures Russia cannot renew its aggression, while Moscow continues to press territorial claims.
Russia’s Response and the Broader Conflict
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin, in his own New Year’s address, projected confidence in eventual victory and urged Russians to support military efforts, underscoring the starkly contrasting narratives from the two capitals.
The conflict has taken a heavy toll on civilians and infrastructure. Russian strikes — including frequent missile and drone attacks on Ukraine’s energy systems — have caused widespread power outages and hardship, even as Ukraine strengthens its air defenses with new systems such as Patriot missiles received from allies.
What’s Next
Zelensky’s remarks signal both cautious optimism and determination. With the core terms of a peace deal mostly drafted, the remaining negotiations will focus on the most sensitive issues: borders, security guarantees, and mechanisms to prevent future aggression. How these final 10 % are resolved could shape the future of Europe’s deadliest conflict since World War II.
