EU Leaders Huddle for Ukraine Peace Amid Trump's "Close" Deal Hopes

• European leaders, including PM Donald Tusk, are meeting Tuesday to discuss Ukraine peace and war efforts, continuing high-level diplomatic negotiations since November.
• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met Donald Trump in Florida, discussing a "reworked 20-point peace framework" that Zelensky claims is "90 per cent agreed."
• Trump stated a deal was "within reach" and "very close," though he cautioned negotiations could still collapse, with teams set to meet again.
• Trump also held a "friendly and businesslike" phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who Trump said was "very generous" towards Ukraine's success.
• Zelensky indicated flexibility on territorial settlements, requiring a ceasefire first, followed by a referendum or parliamentary approval, conditions Moscow has rejected.

Why It Matters: Diplomatic efforts intensify for Ukraine peace, with Trump's talks raising hopes despite significant hurdles.