Key Facts
- ✓ Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said his country was '10 per cent' away from a deal to end the war with Russia.
- ✓ Zelensky cautioned that the most important issues were unresolved and warned against rewarding Moscow.
- ✓ US-led efforts to end Europe’s deadliest conflict since World War II have gained pace in recent weeks.
- ✓ Russia, which occupies around 20 per cent of Ukraine, is pushing for full control.
Quick Summary
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Wednesday that the nation is approximately '10 per cent' away from finalizing a deal to end the war with Russia. The statement suggests a narrowing gap in diplomatic negotiations that have been intensifying recently.
Despite this proximity to an agreement, Zelensky issued a stern warning regarding the unresolved nature of the most significant issues. He emphasized the danger of rewarding Moscow for its aggression, a sentiment that underscores the complexity of the current geopolitical landscape.
Diplomatic Momentum and Sticking Points
US-led efforts to conclude the conflict, which stands as Europe's deadliest since World War II, have notably gained pace in recent weeks. The international community has been applying pressure to find a sustainable path toward peace, resulting in accelerated talks between the involved parties.
However, the path to a final settlement is obstructed by deep-seated disagreements. The primary point of contention remains the issue of territory in a potential post-war arrangement. Negotiations are currently stalled as both nations maintain opposing views on the future of occupied lands.
"10 per cent"
— Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine
The Territorial Dispute 🗺️
The conflict over land ownership represents the most formidable barrier to peace. Russia currently occupies approximately 20 per cent of Ukrainian territory. Reports indicate that Moscow is aggressively pushing for the full annexation of these regions as a condition for ending hostilities.
This demand stands in direct opposition to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Zelensky's administration views the retention of these lands as non-negotiable, creating a significant impasse that the '10 per cent' gap in negotiations must eventually bridge.
Zelensky's Warning
While acknowledging the progress made in talks, President Zelensky remains cautious. His comments reflect a strategic concern that a rushed deal could legitimize Russia's territorial gains, setting a dangerous precedent for international security.
The Ukrainian leader's stance suggests that while the end of the war may be in sight, the final terms must not compromise the nation's long-term security or independence. The focus remains on ensuring that any resolution does not serve as a reward for unprovoked aggression.
Conclusion
The statement by Volodymyr Zelensky marks a pivotal moment in the conflict, indicating that a resolution is closer than it has ever been. Yet, the remaining '10 per cent' of the negotiation involves the most difficult compromises regarding territory and sovereignty.
As US-led diplomatic initiatives continue to push for a conclusion, the world watches to see if the gap between Russian demands and Ukrainian resistance can be closed without further escalation. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether Europe's deadliest conflict since WWII can finally reach a conclusion.
