“Must be of historic significance”: Zelenskyy orders to finalize US security guarantees deal, as Russia stays silent on “fair peace”

On 12 January, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy instructed the finalization of a document outlining security guarantees from the US for Ukraine, to be submitted for consideration at the highest level. He claimed that the document must be of historic significance.

However, he added, there are currently no guarantees that Russia is willing to end the war on fair and realistic terms.

Ukraine plans further developments on reconstruction 

On 12 January, Zelenskyy received a detailed briefing from Ukraine’s negotiation team on contacts with the US side.

“We discussed the schedule for the next two weeks, including meetings, document preparation, and potential signing,” the Ukrainian leader said.

The briefing also covered documents related to Ukraine’s reconstruction and economic development.

"There must be clear feedback from Russia"

Zelenskyy tasked top Ukrainian officials with overseeing and reviewing all economic aspects of future bilateral agreements between Ukraine and the US, as well as trilateral formats involving Ukraine, Europe, and the US. 

The discussions also outlined key mechanisms for utilizing international funds for reconstruction.

“We have presented our position, and there must be clear feedback from Russia on whether they are ready to end the war on real terms,” Zelenskyy said.

The Ukrainian president also highlighted the effectiveness of measures targeting shadow fleet tankers and financial schemes that allow certain regimes to bypass international sanctions.