President Volodymyr Zelensky on 20/12 called for "all-out pressure" on Russia if diplomatic efforts fail. "The United States must state clearly: If not diplomacy, then it will be all-out pressure. Putin has not yet felt the necessary pressure", Zelensky said, reiterating calls for increased weapon supplies to Ukraine and comprehensive sanctions against Russia's economy.

Zelensky also revealed that the United States had proposed initiating the first direct talks between Ukraine and Russia in half a year. However, he voiced skepticism, asserting that only Washington possesses the leverage to persuade Moscow to cease hostilities.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky in Warsaw, Poland, on 19/12. *Photo: AFP*

The last direct negotiations between Ukrainian and Russian envoys occurred in Istanbul, Turkey, in 7/2025. While these discussions facilitated several prisoner exchanges, they yielded no other substantial progress.

During a joint press conference with Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro in Kiev on 20/12, Zelensky affirmed that Ukraine would not accept peace at any cost. He reiterated a "red line" against territorial concessions.

"We have already paid a high price", Zelensky stated. "For Ukraine, a stable, just peace is crucial, one that cannot be violated by anyone. It is important to have strong security guarantees for it".

Ukraine's President emphasized that Kiev seeks a genuine end to Russia's campaign, not merely a paper peace agreement. This declaration coincided with Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev's arrival in Miami, where Ukrainian and European delegations convened for negotiations. US envoy Steve Witkoff and President Donald Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, are mediating these talks.

Russian state media quoted Dmitriev, who said: "The discussions are proceeding constructively".

The Trump administration is advancing a peace plan that would involve US security guarantees for Ukraine. However, this plan suggests Kiev might need to concede some territory, a prospect causing widespread displeasure among Ukrainians.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, however, pledged that Ukraine would not be compelled to accept any agreement. He affirmed: "There will be no peace agreement unless Ukraine agrees".

Russian President Vladimir Putin, during his annual press conference on 19/12, stated his intent to intensify attacks in Ukraine, commending Moscow's battlefield successes. On 20/12, Russia announced control over two additional villages in Sumy and Donetsk provinces, continuing its advance in eastern Ukraine.

Vu Hoang (According to AFP, Kyiv Post)