## Zelenskyy Draws Firm Line: Why Weak Peace Deals Only Extend the Conflict

In his New Year address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made his position crystal clear—there's a difference between wanting peace and surrendering to unfavorable terms. His blunt message: "Peace? Yes. At any cost? No. We want an end to the war but not the end of Ukraine." This distinction matters more than it might initially seem.

The broader picture shows ongoing negotiations, with U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly having moved discussions to the 90% completion mark. However, Trump himself emphasized that the remaining 10% represents the thorniest issues—territorial disputes, security guarantees, and long-term arrangements that will "determine the fate of Ukraine and Europe."

**Where the Negotiations Stand**

Zelenskyy's emphasis on "strong agreements" rather than hasty settlements reveals the core tension in peace talks. He stated plainly: "Any signature placed on weak agreements only fuels the war. My signature will be placed on a strong agreement." This reflects Ukraine's concern that a poorly structured deal could simply postpone conflict rather than genuinely resolve it.

The diplomatic focus has shifted to securing what Zelenskyy calls "lasting settlement"—not a ceasefire lasting weeks or months, but a durable framework built to withstand time. Every negotiation round, every call, and every decision now centers on this objective.

**The Russian Perspective**

Russian President Putin's New Year rhetoric echoed familiar wartime language, telling troops on the frontlines that Moscow remains confident in ultimate victory. Yet this confidence contrasts sharply with the apparent negotiation progress Trump referenced. Putin's continued military posturing and claims regarding alleged attacks on his residence create friction that complicates breakthrough moments.

**The Real Obstacle**

Territory remains the unresolved stumbling block. Neither side has budged substantially on control of disputed regions, making any weak compromise highly risky for Ukraine's sovereignty. Zelenskyy's refusal to accept compromise that appears strong on the surface but weak in substance reflects this reality.

Both nations face pressure to reach resolution, but the gap between acceptable terms reveals why premature agreements might worsen rather than improve the situation. For now, the New Year finds both sides entrenched—one demanding strong protections, the other unwilling to cede ground, leaving durable peace still distant despite negotiation progress.