• President Zelenskyy indicates a "workable" peace plan could be finalized soon.
• Key issues remain unresolved, particularly regarding occupied Ukrainian territory.
• U.S. officials report about 90% consensus on the proposed peace plan.
• Russia expresses a need for comprehensive peace, rejecting temporary solutions.
• Zelensky warns of increased Western pressure on Russia if diplomacy fails.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that proposals being negotiated with U.S. officials for a peace deal to end the ongoing war with Russia are "very workable" and could be finalized within days. Following talks in Berlin, these proposals will be presented to the Kremlin ahead of potential further meetings in the United States next weekend. However, Zelenskyy noted that certain critical issues, particularly regarding Ukrainian territories occupied by Russian forces, remain unresolved as of now, according to CBS News and Los Angeles Times.

Zelenskyy expressed optimism for achieving "strong security guarantees" in upcoming peace discussions, which would hinge on substantial Western military support, including a possible multinational force. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin continues to insist on a comprehensive peace deal rather than a temporary truce, making it clear that he desires guarantees for Russia’s strategic interests in Europe, as emphasized by Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov during a press briefing. Peskov stated, "We want peace - we don't want a truce that would give Ukraine a respite," highlighting Russia's stance, according to CBS News and India Times.

During the Berlin meetings, significant discussions focused on the terms of a future security arrangement, with Zelenskyy signaling that Europe, alongside the U.S., would play a pivotal role in enhancing Ukraine's military capabilities. Despite this progress, peace talks face intricate challenges, particularly regarding territorial concessions, as Russia demands recognition over areas it has occupied, which includes parts of the Donbas region. Zelenskyy stated that he is "not ready to recognize" Russian control over these territories, a sentiment echoed by U.S. officials who fear shrinking the options for a mutually acceptable resolution, as per Los Angeles Times and India Times.

Zelenskyy also warned that should Russia dismiss diplomatic overtures, Ukraine anticipates intensified Western sanctions and escalated military support directed at strengthening its defensive capabilities. As discussions unfold, it is imperative for world leaders to confront the complex dynamics of these negotiations to reach a viable long-term peace, per CBS News, Los Angeles Times, and India Times.