A significant divergence in proposed peace plans for the Ukraine conflict has emerged, with a Russian official stating that Kiev's potential resolution differs sharply from the framework being discussed by Moscow and Washington. The revelation comes as negotiations reach what is described as a pivotal moment.
Russian Official Cites Milestone and Obstacles
On Friday, December 26, 2025, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov addressed the state of negotiations. He appeared on the "60 Minutes" program to share his assessment. Ryabkov indicated that a settlement was within reach but expressed frustration with the process.
"I believe Dec. 25, 2025, will remain in our memory as a milestone when we truly approached a solution," Ryabkov stated. However, he cautioned that reaching a final agreement hinges on the political will of the opposing side.
The Russian diplomat specifically criticized the practice of setting deadlines for the conflict's end, referencing remarks by US Permanent Representative to NATO Matthew Whitaker about a 90-day timeline. Ryabkov argued that such ultimatums do not aid a peaceful settlement.
Accusations of Sabotage and Zelensky's Counter-Proposal
Ryabkov further claimed that the negotiation process is being actively hindered. He alleged that Kiev and its sponsors within the European Union have redoubled efforts to "torpedo" the talks instead of focusing on reaching an agreement.
In a related development reported by US media outlet Axios, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky presented a conditional peace pathway on the same Friday. During a phone interview, Zelensky stated he is willing to bring a comprehensive 20-point peace plan to a national referendum, but only if Russia first agrees to a ceasefire lasting at least 60 days.
Zelensky acknowledged that territorial issues remain a major hurdle, describing potential decisions as "very difficult." His referendum proposal appears designed to secure direct public backing for any final, painful compromises that might be necessary to end the war.
A Fragile Path Forward
The simultaneous statements from Moscow and Kiev paint a picture of negotiations at a critical, yet fragile, crossroads. While Russian officials signal that a deal is closer than ever, they simultaneously accuse Western backers of Ukraine of bad faith.
President Zelensky's referendum plan introduces a new democratic mechanism for legitimizing a potential peace deal, but it is contingent on a two-month halt in hostilities—a condition Russia has not yet addressed. The coming days will test whether the cited milestone of December 25 can be transformed into a lasting agreement or if the accusations of sabotage will lead to another deadlock.
