August 25th, 2025 - What’s Next for Ukraine After Recent Diplomatic Efforts?

In the past 10 days, Ukraine has experienced one of its most intense diplomatic periods since Russia’s invasion began over three years ago. President Trump held a summit in Alaska with Russian President Vladimir Putin, followed by President Zelensky’s meeting with Trump and several European leaders in Washington. While these meetings were framed as pivotal moments in the pursuit of peace, they did not result in any concrete agreements or a ceasefire, and the road ahead for Ukraine remains uncertain.

Despite optimistic rhetoric, the diplomatic efforts have not moved the needle significantly toward a resolution. The possibility of a summit between Putin and Zelensky seems increasingly unlikely, as the two sides remain far apart on key issues. Although the White House initially suggested that Putin had agreed to a meeting, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that no such meeting is planned, and any agenda would need to be agreed upon first.

On the U.S. side, President Trump tasked Secretary of State Marco Rubio with exploring security guarantees for Ukraine if hostilities cease. Meanwhile, Zelensky’s team is scheduled to meet with American officials later this week to discuss future talks with Moscow, although many Ukrainians remain skeptical about the sincerity of Russia’s willingness to negotiate peace.

In terms of Russia’s pressure, Trump had previously set a deadline for Moscow to end the war, with the threat of new sanctions looming. Although the U.S. has imposed strict sanctions on Russian individuals and entities since the invasion, these measures have yet to significantly disrupt Russia's economy or its trade, especially with countries like China and India. Russia’s continued trade with key partners could make it difficult to impose effective sanctions without triggering global economic instability.

On the battlefield, the situation remains dire. Russia’s forces have maintained their offensive, particularly in the Donbas region, where heavy fighting continues. Moscow is focused on capturing the last remaining Ukrainian-held territory in Donetsk, while the use of drones for surveillance and attacks has made it increasingly difficult for troops to maneuver on the ground. Russian aerial assaults using drones and missiles continue to target Ukrainian cities, causing significant casualties.

The peace process faces significant sticking points, with territory and security guarantees remaining major sources of division. Putin demands that Ukraine cede control of the Donbas region, which includes the Luhansk and Donetsk areas, but Ukraine refuses to surrender key cities that are vital both strategically and politically. Additionally, Ukraine seeks assurances against future Russian aggression, with NATO membership often seen as the most effective security guarantee—though that option seems unlikely in the short term.

Amid these challenges, discussions continue about how best to provide security for Ukraine in a post-war context. While some countries, including France and Britain, have offered to deploy troops in Ukraine, the U.S. has promised involvement without committing to sending American troops on the ground. Meanwhile, Russia has called for the United Nations Security Council to oversee any future security guarantees, a demand Kyiv firmly opposes. Ukraine’s request for the return of thousands of abducted children remains another unresolved issue, further complicating the peace negotiations.

Word of the Day (Merriam-Webster) - Undulant (adj, UN-juh-lunt) - Undulant describes things that rise and fall in waves, or things that have a wavy form, outline, or surface.

Example: The exhibit featured a painting with beautiful green strokes that resembled undulant hills.