Sat Feb 15 05:17:25 UTC 2025: ## US and Ukraine Push for Peace Deal Amidst Trump’s Russia Overture

**Munich, Germany** – As the war in Ukraine approaches its third anniversary, US Vice President JD Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy have both publicly stressed the urgent need for a peace agreement with Russia. This comes amidst a turbulent backdrop created by former US President Donald Trump’s announced communication with Russian President Vladimir Putin and suggestions of a potential truce.

Vance, speaking at the Munich Security Conference, reiterated the US commitment to a “durable, lasting peace,” while Zelenskyy confirmed his readiness for swift negotiations towards a “real and guaranteed peace.” A US envoy will soon visit Kyiv to further these discussions. Zelenskyy, however, emphasized Ukraine’s continued reliance on US support, stating that survival without it would be highly unlikely. He sought to downplay concerns that Trump was sidelining Kyiv, mentioning a personal phone number exchange with the former President.

The ongoing conflict’s intensity was highlighted by a reported Russian overnight drone attack targeting northern Ukraine, including areas near the Chernobyl nuclear plant. Zelenskyy characterized this as evidence of Russia’s lack of commitment to negotiations. Russia, in turn, dismissed the attack as a Ukrainian provocation.

Adding to the complexity is Trump’s stated intention to engage directly with Putin, coupled with his and Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth’s previously voiced opposition to Ukraine’s NATO membership. While Vance assured that Trump would consider all options in any negotiations, he also hinted at the potential use of military leverage to pressure Russia into a deal.

The Munich Security Conference, attended by numerous world leaders and experts, is addressing these developments alongside other pressing global security challenges, including the implications of Trump’s return to power and the evolving transatlantic relationship. The conference concludes on February 16th.

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