Trump says Ukraine deal closer following weekend discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at his Florida estate. The US President expressed optimism that a peace agreement could emerge within weeks, despite ongoing challenges over territorial control in eastern Ukraine.

During their Sunday meeting at Mar-a-Lago, both leaders discussed a revised peace framework. Zelensky described the plan as “90% agreed,” with security guarantees fully finalized. However, significant disagreements persist regarding the Donbas region, where fighting has concentrated since Russia’s invasion began in February 2022.

The proposed plan includes several key elements. First, fighting would stop at current frontlines in eastern Ukraine. Second, a demilitarized zone would be established in the contested areas. Third, international forces would monitor any ceasefire agreement. Additionally, Ukraine would receive security guarantees similar to NATO’s mutual defense commitment.

Trump acknowledged that resolving territorial disputes remains difficult. “It’s unresolved, but it’s getting a lot closer,” he stated during the joint appearance. Meanwhile, Russia has shown little willingness to compromise, continuing to demand Ukrainian troop withdrawals from Donbas.

Before meeting Zelensky, Trump spoke by phone with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Kremlin later claimed both nations share similar positions, though this contradicts statements from Ukrainian and European officials.

Zelensky has proposed creating a “free economic zone” in the industrial heartland. This area would require both sides to withdraw military forces. Furthermore, international peacekeepers would oversee the demilitarized territory. Similar arrangements might apply to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, currently under Russian control.

Key Points of the Peace Framework:

• Ceasefire at current battle lines
• Demilitarized zones in contested areas
• US-backed security guarantees for Ukraine
• Possible referendum for Ukrainian citizens
• International monitoring of agreements
• Future EU membership discussions

Russia launched fresh attacks on Kyiv before the Florida meeting. These strikes knocked out power and heating for hundreds of thousands of residents during winter. Putin warned that military solutions would continue if Ukraine rejects peace terms.

European leaders joined the discussions by phone after the Trump-Zelensky meeting. Zelensky indicated he might return to Washington in January with European counterparts for further negotiations.

Despite progress, major obstacles remain. Russia demands immediate Ukrainian withdrawal from Donbas territories it claims. Conversely, Ukraine insists any territorial decisions require voter approval through referendum.

The coming weeks will prove critical. As Trump noted, it will become clear whether ending this devastating conflict is truly possible. Trump says Ukraine deal closer than ever before, though the path forward requires difficult compromises from all parties involved.

Richa Ghosh, India’s dynamic wicketkeeper-batter, recently shared how the ODI World Cup victory has transformed the lives of women cricketers across the country. Speaking after India’s commanding 30-run win over Sri Lanka in the fourth T20I, she highlighted the newfound recognition players now enjoy everywhere they go.

The 22-year-old produced another explosive performance in Thiruvananthapuram, scoring a blistering 40 runs off just 16 balls. Her innings featured four boundaries and three sixes, showcasing her incredible finishing ability. Furthermore, she helped India post a formidable total of 222 runs, which ultimately proved too much for the visiting team.

Life After World Cup Triumph

According to Richa, the World Cup victory has brought significant changes for the entire team. “Everyone is happy, and wherever we go, we receive a warm welcome from the public,” she explained during the post-match presentation. Moreover, people now recognize players by name, whether it’s Deepti Sharma, Shafali Verma, or herself.

This recognition marks a historic shift for women’s cricket in India. Previously, many players competed without widespread public awareness. However, the World Cup win has elevated their profiles dramatically. Consequently, the team carries increased confidence into every series they play.

Richa’s Journey and Playing Style

Born in September 2003 in Siliguri, West Bengal, Richa began her cricket journey at just four years old. Her father, Manabendra Ghosh, a former cricketer himself, introduced her to the sport. Interestingly, she initially played with boys’ teams because Siliguri lacked a girls’ cricket team at that time.

Key Career Milestones:

In the recent match, team management promoted her to number three in the batting order. This decision proved successful as she took on the aggressor’s role immediately. “Whenever I get a chance, my motto is to score runs and provide a good finish,” she stated clearly.

Current Form and Focus

Richa has also played internationally for Hobart Hurricanes in WBBL and London Spirit in the Women’s Hundred. Additionally, her domestic success with Royal Challengers Bengaluru has established her as one of cricket’s most valuable players.

Despite her batting brilliance, she acknowledges areas for improvement. Her wicketkeeping occasionally needs refinement, including a missed stumping during the Sri Lanka match. Nevertheless, she remains focused on contributing wherever the team needs her most.

Currently unmarried and completely dedicated to cricket, Richa continues building her legacy. Her family, including mother Swapna and sister Somashree, supports her journey every step of the way.

As India extends their unbeatable series lead to 4-0, Richa Ghosh stands as a shining example of how talent, dedication, and opportunity can transform both individual careers and entire sports.

Brigitte Bardot, the legendary French actress and passionate animal rights activist, passed away on Sunday, December 28, at the age of 91. She died peacefully at her Saint-Tropez home, La Madrague, with her husband Bernard d’Ormale by her side. The Brigitte Bardot Foundation confirmed her death early Sunday morning.

Bruno Jacquelin, the Foundation’s press director, shared her final moments with BFMTV. “At 5:50 she was still breathing,” he explained. Furthermore, at 5:55, she softly whispered her affectionate word “Pioupiou” before passing away. This tender farewell marked the end of an extraordinary life that spanned cinema, activism, and controversy.

A Cinema Icon of Her Time

During the 1950s and 1960s, Brigitte became a global symbol of beauty and freedom. Her breakthrough role came in “And God Created Woman” (1956), directed by Roger Vadim. Subsequently, she starred in Jean-Luc Godard’s masterpiece “Contempt” (1963), cementing her status as a film legend.

French President Emmanuel Macron honored her on social media, calling her a “legend of the century” who “embodied a life of freedom.” Meanwhile, countless celebrities and fans expressed their grief and admiration.

Career Highlights:

From Actress to Animal Advocate

In 1973, Brigitte made a dramatic decision. She abandoned her successful film career completely. Instead, she dedicated herself entirely to animal protection. For over 50 years, she fought tirelessly for animal rights worldwide. Consequently, her Foundation became one of France’s most respected animal welfare organizations.

Line Renaud praised her as a “sister in combat” for animals. Similarly, PETA called her “an angel for animals,” urging people to honor her memory by helping animals. Additionally, Mireille Mathieu described her as having “beauty of the heart,” not just physical beauty.

Complex Legacy and Controversies

However, Brigitte’s later life included significant controversies. She faced five convictions for inciting racial hatred through her statements. Moreover, she openly supported far-right political figures, including Jean-Marie Le Pen. Her husband, Bernard d’Ormale, served as an advisor to Le Pen.

Despite these controversies, many remember her primarily for her cinematic contributions and animal welfare work. Nevertheless, her political views remain a complicated part of her legacy.

Final Tributes and Remembrance

In September, while hospitalized, Brigitte gave a final interview. “I’ve had enough,” she confessed. “There’s a weariness you can’t imagine.” She also reflected that life remained “a mystery” she would “soon understand.”

The mayor of Nice, Christian Estrosi, announced plans to name a prominent city location after her. Additionally, fans have been gathering at La Madrague, leaving flowers and paying respects. These tributes demonstrate how Brigitte Bardot continues inspiring people despite her complicated history, leaving behind an unforgettable mark on French culture and animal rights advocacy worldwide.