Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks Progress; Trump Engages Putin on Potential Agreement – 12/29/2025, 12:25:05 PM

Ukraine-Russia peace talks advance amid ongoing conflict. US President Donald Trump stated after a Mar-a-Lago summit with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that the two sides are closer than ever to a peace deal, including a 20-point plan, though deep divisions persist over territories controlled by Moscow; Zelenskyy affirmed Kyiv’s readiness for a final agreement and full cooperation with the US[1][2]. Russia reported downing 195 Ukrainian drones overnight, including five over the Moscow region, as exchanges continue[2]. Trump plans further calls with Putin, with upcoming meetings involving European leaders and Canadian support of $2.5 billion in aid[1].

Trump-Putin contact precedes Zelenskyy meeting. Trump confirmed calling Putin before the Zelenskyy summit, while a Kremlin aide praised Trump’s peace efforts[1][2].

Midair helicopter collision in New Jersey. Two helicopters collided in midair, causing a tragedy reported in recent US national news[1].

Canada retaliates in US trade dispute. Canada announced 25% tariffs on $155 billion of American goods in response to US actions, with provinces removing US alcohol from stores and threatening energy cutoffs; this follows G7 tensions and a 30-day deal timeline that stalled, amid a CUSMA review and the Canadian envoy to DC stepping down[1].

Other global developments:
– Asia-Pacific tensions: North Korea tested long-range cruise missiles; Chinese military plans drills around Taiwan; South Korea vows to end foreign adoptions[2].
– Middle East/Africa: UK leader faces criticism for applauding a man’s release from Egyptian prison amid resurfaced tweets; South African police arrested 11 after a pub shooting killing 10; body found in search for missing Spanish coach and three children[2].
– Americas: Venezuelan family details shift from American dream to poverty; Bondi victims’ families urge Australian federal action[2].
– Europe: Hungarian farmers combat desertification as “water guardians”[2]; Montreal efforts aid unhoused in winter; P.E.I. housing market examined[1].

These stories reflect bulletins from December 29, 2025, morning broadcasts and updates[1][2][3].