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Monday 23/02/2026

Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks Face Hurdles Amid Territorial Disputes and Security Concerns

Russian, Ukrainian, and American leaders in peace talks with Donbas and Zaporizhzhia backdrop
Alex CarterAlex Carter

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Russia, Ukraine, and the US are nearing a peace deal, but territorial disputes and the status of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant remain unresolved.
  • Ukrainian President Zelensky is open to meeting Putin and has proposed a demilitarized zone in Donbas, but Russia's demands for full control complicate negotiations.
  • Russia has moved nuclear-capable missiles to Belarus, escalating tensions and raising security concerns in the region.
  • Zelensky has discussed the potential presence of US troops in Ukraine as part of security guarantees, though the White House has not commented.
  • Allegations of a Ukrainian drone attack on Putin's residence have been dismissed by Kyiv and its allies as unfounded.

As peace negotiations between Russia, Ukraine, and the United States approach a critical juncture, unresolved issues threaten to derail the process. Central to these discussions are territorial disputes in the Donbas region and the status of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, currently under Russian control. Despite progress, President Donald Trump acknowledged the presence of "thorny, very tough issues" that remain.

Territorial Disputes in Donbas

Russian President Vladimir Putin's insistence on full control over Ukraine's industrial Donbas region remains a significant obstacle. While Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has proposed a compromise involving a demilitarized zone, Russia's demands for complete territorial acquisition complicate the negotiations. Zelensky emphasized the importance of protecting the 300,000 residents in the contested areas, stating, "We can't lose those people."

Nuclear Plant and Security Concerns

The Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, Europe's largest, has been in cold shutdown since its occupation by Russian forces in March 2022. The plant's future remains uncertain, with substantial investment needed to restart operations. Meanwhile, Russia's deployment of nuclear-capable missiles in Belarus has heightened regional security concerns.

US Troop Presence and Alleged Attacks

In a bid to bolster Ukraine's security, Zelensky has discussed the potential deployment of US troops with President Trump, though the White House has yet to comment. Additionally, allegations of a Ukrainian drone attack on Putin's residence have been dismissed by Kyiv and its allies as fabrications. Zelensky labeled the claims as "typical Russian lies," intended to justify further aggression.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The ongoing peace talks face significant challenges, with territorial disputes and security concerns at the forefront. Should Russia maintain its territorial demands, the likelihood of reaching a comprehensive peace agreement diminishes. However, a potential compromise involving a demilitarized zone could pave the way for progress.

The deployment of nuclear-capable missiles in Belarus adds a layer of complexity, potentially influencing NATO's strategic calculations. The involvement of US troops in Ukraine, if realized, could further shift the regional balance of power, prompting a reassessment of security dynamics.

As negotiations continue, the international community will closely monitor developments, with the hope that diplomatic efforts can ultimately lead to a sustainable resolution.