Diplomatic efforts to resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict have reached a critical juncture, with Moscow confirming on December 29, 2025 that negotiations are entering their final phase. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated: "While significant progress has been made this year, Ukraine must withdraw forces from remaining Donbas territories to achieve lasting peace."
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has proposed a four-party signing mechanism involving Ukraine, Russia, the European Union, and the United States, with any agreement subject to national referendum. "The Ukrainian people will have the final say," he declared during a televised address from Kyiv.
Key developments:
French President Emmanuel Macron announces new Coalition of the Willing summit in Paris (January 2026)
Russian forces report capturing Dibrova village in Donetsk region
Mariupol Drama Theater reopens after reconstruction – site of 2022 siege
Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant could resume operations by mid-2027 if conflict ends
While US President Donald Trump acknowledged "unprecedented progress," he noted unresolved territorial disputes continue to complicate negotiations. Diplomatic sources suggest the proposed Paris summit may serve as potential signing venue for any final agreement.
