Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently highlighted a significant phone call held with U.S. officials amid ongoing peace negotiations to address Russia’s aggression towards Ukraine. The call involved U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, who met with a Ukrainian delegation in Florida. This meeting marked the third consecutive day dedicated to peace talks aimed at resolving the conflict.
Zelenskyy Discusses Key Points for Peace
During the conversation, Zelenskyy indicated that the discussions were comprehensive. The Ukrainian delegation included:
- Andrii Hnatov – Head of Ukraine’s Armed Forces
- Andrii Sybiha – Ukraine’s Foreign Minister
- Rustem Umerov – Head of Ukraine’s Security Council
Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of addressing crucial aspects to halt the ongoing bloodshed and mitigate the possibility of future Russian invasions. He expressed concern over Russia’s historical failure to uphold agreements. On his social media platform X, he wrote, “We covered many aspects and went through key points that could ensure an end to the bloodshed.”
Progress Hinges on Russia’s Commitment
Following the initial talks, diplomats reflected that meaningful progress depends on Russia’s willingness to engage seriously in long-term peace endeavors. Keith Kellogg, U.S. Special Envoy for Ukraine, stated at the Reagan National Defense Forum that a peace deal is within reach. He identified ongoing discussions surrounding the territorial situation, particularly in the Donbas region, as well as the status of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, currently under Russian control, as vital for the negotiations.
Kellogg described the current stage of talks as being in the “last ten metres,” acknowledging that these final steps are often the most challenging.
Upcoming Meetings with European Allies
In addition to discussions with U.S. officials, Zelenskyy plans to meet key European leaders in London. On Monday, he is scheduled to sit down with:
- Friedrich Merz – German Chancellor
- Keir Starmer – British Prime Minister
- Emmanuel Macron – French President
Macron recently reiterated his support for Ukraine and criticized Russia for its aggressive actions, asserting that peace cannot be secured without comprehensive security guarantees for Ukraine. He stated, “We will continue these efforts with the Americans to provide Ukraine with security guarantees, without which no robust and lasting peace will be possible.”
This series of high-level meetings underscores the continued commitment of Ukraine and its allies to pursue a just and lasting resolution to the conflict, despite the complexities involved.
