### Ukraine's Path to Peace: Zelensky Claims Deal is Within Reach Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has recently indicated that Ukraine is "10 percent" away from finalizing a peace deal to end the ongoing war with Russia. In his New Year address, he emphasized that while significant progress has been made, critical issues remain unresolved, particularly concerning territorial control and security guarantees. Zelensky has made it clear that he will not accept a weak agreement that could prolong the conflict or undermine Ukraine's sovereignty, stating, "We want an end to the war, but not the end of Ukraine" [https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15427787/volodymyr-zelensky-ukraine-peace-deal.html]. ### Key Elements of the Current Situation 1. **Progress in Negotiations**: - Zelensky asserts that the peace agreement is "90 percent ready," with only 10 percent of the negotiations left to finalize [https://www.moneycontrol.com/world/peace-in-sight-zelenskyy-says-ukraine-only-10-away-from-deal-with-russia-article-13752100.html]. - The remaining issues are crucial and could determine the future of Ukraine and Europe [https://www.scmp.com/news/world/europe/article/3338377/zelensky-says-deal-end-ukraine-war-10-cent-away-putin-pushes-victory]. 2. **Territorial Disputes**: - A major sticking point in the negotiations is the control of territories, particularly in the eastern Donbas region, which Russia currently occupies [https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/zelenskiy-says-he-wont-sign-weak-deal-that-will-only-prolong-war]. - Zelensky has warned that conceding territory would embolden Moscow and is not an option for Ukraine [https://www.firstpost.com/world/zelenskyy-says-his-country-is-10-away-from-deal-to-end-the-war-warns-of-unresolved-issues-13964494.html]. 3. **International Support and Pressure**: - Ongoing diplomatic efforts, particularly from the U.S. and European allies, are aimed at facilitating a strong peace agreement that ensures Ukraine's security [https://www.india.com/news/world/russia-ukraine-peace-deal-volodymyr-zelensky-vladimir-putin-united-states-donald-trump-us-india-nuclear-war-white-house-8252814.html]. - Zelensky has called for robust international support to pressure Russia into a favorable resolution [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/3746616-zelenskiys-resolute-stand-peace-without-weakness]. ### Evidence Supporting the Claims - **Statements from Zelensky**: In his New Year address, he highlighted the importance of the remaining 10 percent of negotiations, stating, "Those are the 10 percent that will determine the fate of peace, the fate of Ukraine and Europe" [https://www.nation.com.pk/01-jan-2026/ukraine-10-percent-away-reaching-peace-deal-russia-zelenskyy]. - **Russian Position**: President Vladimir Putin has reiterated his commitment to achieving victory in Ukraine, complicating the negotiation landscape [https://www.india.com/news/world/russia-ukraine-peace-deal-volodymyr-zelensky-vladimir-putin-united-states-donald-trump-us-india-nuclear-war-white-house-8252814.html]. - **Public Sentiment**: Zelensky's address reflects a strong resolve among Ukrainians to seek peace without compromising their territorial integrity, as they have endured nearly four years of conflict [https://www.theepochtimes.com/world/zelenskyy-says-he-will-only-sign-strong-peace-deal-in-new-years-eve-address-5964928]. ### Conclusion: A Critical Juncture for Ukraine In summary, **Ukraine stands at a pivotal moment in its quest for peace**, with President Zelensky asserting that a deal is nearly complete but contingent on resolving key issues. The following points encapsulate the current situation: 1. **Negotiation Status**: The peace agreement is 90% ready, with critical unresolved issues remaining [https://www.moneycontrol.com/world/peace-in-sight-zelenskyy-says-ukraine-only-10-away-from-deal-with-russia-article-13752100.html]. 2. **Territorial Integrity**: Zelensky has firmly rejected any weak agreements that could jeopardize Ukraine's sovereignty [https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/zelenskiy-says-he-wont-sign-weak-deal-that-will-only-prolong-war]. 3. **International Dynamics**: Ongoing diplomatic efforts are crucial in applying pressure on Russia to reach a favorable resolution [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/3746616-zelenskiys-resolute-stand-peace-without-weakness]. As the situation evolves, the international community's role will be vital in shaping the outcome of these negotiations and ensuring a lasting peace for Ukraine.