Trump and Zelensky Meet in Davos, Seeking to End Ukraine-Russia War

Negotiations focus on Donbas region as both leaders express optimism for a deal

Apr. 12, 2026 at 8:59am

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A cinematic painting of a solitary Ukrainian flag hanging from a government building, the fabric illuminated by warm, diagonal sunlight and cast in deep shadows, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation and the weight of the ongoing conflict.As diplomats work to broker a fragile peace, the Ukrainian flag stands as a symbol of the nation's resilience and the long road ahead.Today in Miami

As US President Donald Trump prepares to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the World Economic Forum in Davos, there is growing optimism that an end to the devastating war in Ukraine may be within reach. Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, expressed confidence that a single sticking point remains solvable, likely centering on the future of the Donbas region. However, obstacles remain, including the humanitarian crisis in Kyiv and differing positions on Donbas between Ukraine and Russia.

Why it matters

The Ukraine-Russia war has raged for years, causing immense suffering and destruction. A potential peace deal could finally bring an end to the conflict and pave the way for Ukraine's recovery and regional stability. However, the negotiations involve complex geopolitical and security considerations that must be carefully balanced.

The details

Witkoff, speaking ahead of his diplomatic mission to Moscow, suggested a proposal to transform the Donbas region into a demilitarized, free economic zone in exchange for security guarantees for Ukraine. Zelensky has proposed withdrawing Ukrainian troops from 25% of the Donetsk region to create an economic zone if Russia reciprocates. Another major sticking point is the future control of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, seized by Russia in 2022. Parallel diplomatic initiatives, such as Trump's proposed 'Board of Peace' on Gaza, further complicate the landscape.

  • The meeting between Trump and Zelensky is scheduled to take place at the World Economic Forum in Davos on January 18, 2026.
  • Witkoff is set to travel to Moscow for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the coming weeks.

The players

Donald Trump

The current President of the United States, who is playing a key role in the negotiations to end the Ukraine-Russia war.

Volodymyr Zelensky

The President of Ukraine, who is seeking a resolution to the conflict that has devastated his country.

Steve Witkoff

Trump's envoy, who is set to travel to Moscow for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Jared Kushner

Trump's son-in-law, who is also involved in the diplomatic efforts to end the war.

Dmitry Peskov

The Kremlin spokesman, who has remained tight-lipped about Russia's stance on the negotiations.

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What they’re saying

“If they don't [strike a deal], they're stupid.”

— Donald Trump, President of the United States

“There's still one mile left to finalize the documents.”

— Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine

What’s next

The meeting between Trump and Zelensky at the World Economic Forum in Davos will be a crucial step in determining whether a peace deal can be reached. Witkoff and Kushner's upcoming trip to Moscow will also be closely watched as they seek to secure Russia's cooperation.

The takeaway

The negotiations to end the Ukraine-Russia war involve complex geopolitical and security considerations that must be carefully balanced. While there is optimism that a deal may be within reach, significant obstacles remain, including the humanitarian crisis in Kyiv and differing positions on the Donbas region. The outcome of the Trump-Zelensky meeting and the ongoing diplomatic efforts will have far-reaching implications for the future of Ukraine and regional stability.