London, December 02, 2025
Renewed peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine are underway in 2025, focusing on resolving territorial disputes in the Donbas region amid ongoing conflict. Talks have involved high-level negotiators, including Ukraine’s chief negotiator Mykhailo Podoliak, and have taken place in locations such as Belarus as both sides seek to end the war that has persisted since 2022.
Current Status of Negotiations
Peace discussions resumed following Donald Trump’s inauguration as U.S. president, marking a shift in international dynamics. The Trump administration has shown alignment with Russian peace proposals, contrasting with European nations that continue to support Ukraine’s positions. Despite these efforts, negotiations face significant difficulties as Russia consistently rejects ceasefire calls and President Vladimir Putin refuses direct dialogue with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Territorial Disputes at the Core
The primary obstacle remains the status of the Donbas region, composed of Luhansk and Donetsk provinces. Russia demands that Ukraine recognize Crimea as Russian territory and grant independence to separatist-controlled areas of Donbas. Additional Russian conditions include the “de-militarisation” and “de-Nazification” of Ukraine. Ukrainian leadership, however, firmly opposes any territorial concessions. President Zelenskyy reiterated in May 2025 that Ukraine would only agree to peace once Crimea and Donbas are fully returned to Ukrainian control, emphasizing national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Ukrainian Peace Proposals
Ukraine’s chief negotiator, Mykhailo Podoliak, presented a detailed 15-point peace plan by March 2025. The proposal calls for a phased Russian military withdrawal from Ukrainian territory. In exchange, Ukraine seeks binding international guarantees to deter any renewed aggression, while offering to abandon its pursuit of NATO membership. The plan represents Ukraine’s effort to balance security concerns with pragmatic concessions aimed at ending the conflict.
Humanitarian Agreements
Amid political stalemate, negotiators reached limited consensus on humanitarian issues during talks held in Kamyanyuki, Belarus. Both parties agreed to establish humanitarian corridors to facilitate the safe evacuation of civilians from conflict zones, an essential measure to alleviate civilian suffering even as broader disagreements persist.
Ongoing disputes over territory and security guarantees continue to challenge the path to a comprehensive peace agreement. The resolution of the Donbas conflict remains critical not only for regional stability but also for wider international security, with the world closely monitoring any progress in this volatile situation.