Friday briefing: How will Ukraine fare this winter as Trump pushes for a controversial peace deal?
GuardianNOV 28
Zelenskyy: Finding 'Dignified End' to the War 'Feasible'
Will the Ukrainian delegation traveling to the U.S. find a palatable end to this conflict or is the country and Zelenskyy headed for a darker reality?
Above: Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the Parliament in Athens on Nov. 16, 2025. Image credit: Nick Paleologos/AFP/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-Ukraine narrative
The Ukrainian delegation has arrived in the U.S., and work on the outcomes of the Geneva meeting continues. Meanwhile, the U.S. continues to show a constructive approach to ending the war in a dignified way. The Ukrainian president has briefed the negotiating team on the country's priorities.
Pro-Russia narrative
In general, Russia sees the U.S. framework as a good starting point for future agreements. However, it must be noted that the points are not in their final form, and some issues still require careful consideration and discussion.
Pro-Trump narrative
Over the past week, the U.S. has made tremendous progress toward securing a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine. There are still some points of disagreement that need further work. However, these are not insurmountable — hopefully, an agreement is imminent.
Cynical narrative
There's no doubt that Zelenskyy is facing the most difficult period of his now six-year presidency. He's facing a colossal corruption scandal involving his closest associates. Not only that, Russian troops are advancing in the east, and Trump is pushing a Russia-favored deal. Things are not looking good for Zelenskyy or his country.
Metaculus Prediction
The Controversies
Go Deeper
Establishment split
CRITICAL
PRO
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© 2025 Improve the News Foundation.
All rights reserved.
Version 6.18.0