European markets set to start the last trading week of 2025 in flat territory

Group 1 - U.K. business leaders are urging the Chancellor of the Exchequer to reduce energy costs and avoid increasing the tax burden on corporations as the budget is prepared [1] - European stocks are anticipated to open slightly higher, with trading volumes expected to be lighter due to the Christmas holidays [2] - The possibility of a peace deal for Ukraine is diminishing, with U.S. President Trump and Ukrainian President Zelensky acknowledging progress but noting unresolved issues [3][4] Group 2 - President Zelensky stated that approximately 90% of a 20-point peace plan has been agreed upon, while President Trump indicated that the agreement is "close to 95%" complete [4]