### Zelenskyy Seeks Extended Security Guarantees from the U.S. Amid Peace Talks with Russia Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has recently engaged in discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump regarding security guarantees for Ukraine, emphasizing the need for a long-term commitment to deter Russian aggression. Zelenskyy has requested security guarantees lasting up to **50 years**, significantly exceeding the **15-year** proposal currently on the table as part of a peace plan aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict with Russia. The urgency of these discussions comes as both leaders express optimism about nearing a peace settlement, although key issues remain unresolved, particularly concerning territorial disputes and the status of Russian-occupied areas in Ukraine. ### Structure of the Response 1. **Overview of Security Guarantees** - Zelenskyy has requested a **50-year** security guarantee from the U.S. to protect Ukraine against Russian aggression [https://www.cnbc.com/2025/12/29/zelenskyy-asks-trump-for-50-years-of-security-guarantees.html]. - The U.S. has proposed a **15-year** security guarantee as part of a peace plan [https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-trump-zelenskyy-peace-b784a9af1803995bfb7152eceb5477f1]. 2. **Details of the Peace Plan** - The peace plan includes discussions on the status of Russian-occupied territories and the future of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant [https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/2025/12/29/us-offered-kyiv-15-years-security-guarantees-zelensky-says]. - Zelenskyy has indicated that international troop presence in Ukraine is a necessary component of the security guarantees [https://www.cp24.com/news/world/2025/12/29/us-offers-ukraine-15-year-security-guarantee-as-part-of-peace-plan-zelenskyy-says]. 3. **Responses from Key Leaders** - Trump has stated that a deal to end the war is "closer than ever," with negotiations reportedly at a **95% completion** stage [https://www.graphic.com.gh/international/international-news/us-offered-ukraine-15-year-security-guarantee-says-zelensky.html]. - The Kremlin has acknowledged the progress in talks but maintains its demands regarding territorial concessions from Ukraine [https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/world/2025/12/29/us-offered-kyiv-15-years-of-security-guarantees-says-zelensky]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Security Guarantees Timeline**: - **15-Year Proposal**: U.S. security guarantees for Ukraine are set for **15 years**, with discussions ongoing about potential extensions [https://www.euronews.com/2025/12/29/us-security-guarantees-for-ukraine-set-for-15-years-zelenskyy-says]. - **Zelenskyy's Request**: The Ukrainian president has explicitly stated his preference for guarantees lasting **30 to 50 years** [https://www.kjzz.org/npr-top-stories/2025-12-29/the-u-s-offers-ukraine-a-15-year-security-guarantee-for-now-zelenskyy-says]. ### Conclusion and Key Takeaways In summary, the discussions between President Zelenskyy and President Trump mark a critical juncture in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. The proposed **15-year** security guarantees from the U.S. are seen as a stepping stone, but Zelenskyy's push for a **50-year** commitment underscores the urgency and seriousness of Ukraine's security concerns. 1. **Zelenskyy's Request**: Aiming for **50-year** guarantees to ensure long-term security against Russia. 2. **U.S. Proposal**: A **15-year** security guarantee is currently on the table as part of a peace plan. 3. **Negotiation Status**: Both leaders express optimism about nearing a peace settlement, but key territorial issues remain unresolved. The outcome of these negotiations will significantly impact the future stability of Ukraine and its relations with both the U.S. and Russia [https://www.scmp.com/news/world/europe/article/3338066/ukraines-zelensky-asked-trump-historic-50-year-guarantee-against-russia-mar-lago].