During an unofficial conversation with journalists, American officials revealed that the US delegation spent over eight hours of direct talks with President Volodymyr Zelensky. She also held numerous meetings with European politicians, including national security advisers and foreign ministers of Germany, Great Britain and France.
One official describes the talks as “really very positive in almost every respect”. He added that negotiators “reached consensus on several issues that we consider crucial to concluding a peace agreement.”
US officials emphasize that the most progress has been made on a comprehensive security package for Ukraine, which they describe as the strongest ever proposed.
Officials explain that the guarantees are “similar to Article 5” but go further – they include military surveillance, verification, deterrence and anti-escalation mechanisms. Another official described the system as “the platinum standard of what can be offered.”
According to U.S. officials, the proposal would require Senate approval, and President Donald Trump is willing to seek its ratification. “It would require a vote in the Senate, and President Trump is ready for that,” one official emphasizes.
Such a commitment surprised both Ukrainian and European participants of the talksofficials say, especially in light of expectations that Russia could eventually accept NATO-style guarantees, albeit without formal membership in the alliance.
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Without revealing all the details, US representatives emphasize that security guarantees do not provide for the presence of American troops on Ukrainian territory. — These are no longer conceptual talks, says one of the officials, noting that the documents are now “very detailed” and “practically agreed at the working level.”
The goal, as officials emphasize, is to ensure that “everything that we consider important for the sense of security of the Ukrainian people is included in this package.”
Game for the future of Ukraine and the whole of Europe
American officials also frequently praise European partners for their commitment, calling it “absolutely exemplary.” – Everyone was committed to ending this conflict – says one of the officials.
The American praises close cooperation with Germany, Great Britain, France, Poland, Italy and the Nordic countries. According to officials European leaders see Ukraine as 'key to their security' and appreciate Trump's willingness to offer binding guarantees.
According to US representatives, the talks also concerned long-term financial stability of Ukraineincluding a reconstruction plan with the participation of the investment company BlackRock and the World Bank. — A great plan is being created to get people to return to the country and ensure transparent government, says one of the officials.
They also discussed Ukraine's budget needs, maintaining the armed forces, compensation for families injured in the war, and ways of using frozen Russian assets for reconstruction “by agreement.”
Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky in front of the White House, October 17, 2025.SHAWN THEW / PAP
Territorial issues, including those regarding occupied areas, remain unresolved, however differences have narrowed, according to U.S. officials. – We have come much closer to reaching an agreement between Ukrainians and Russians – reveals one of the officials, pointing out that the preliminary working draft provides for a consensus of approximately 90%. issues discussed.
The solutions discussed included: free trade zones or a multi-phase approach, whereby final decisions regarding sovereignty will rest with Kiev and Moscow. Officials add that President Zelensky will have to consult with his own team before responding to proposals described as “thought-provoking.”
US officials say they may be the next step further working meetings in the United States and a possible trip to Russiaif necessary. “We are acting on President Trump's direction to do whatever is necessary to help forge a lasting peace,” one official said.
He refers to these efforts as a test permanently halt Russia's expansion into the West and create a framework solid enough to prevent future conflicts. “Let's hope we're on the road to peace,” one official said, adding that the administration believes “a lot of good can come from this” if a deal is struck.
I’m Ashley Davis as an editor, I’m committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accuracy in every piece we publish. My work is driven by curiosity, a passion for truth, and a belief that journalism plays a crucial role in shaping public discourse. I strive to tell stories that not only inform but also inspire action and conversation.
