First Round of Ukraine-US Talks Ends in Kyiv
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the first round of talks with the US negotiating delegation in Kyiv has concluded. He said the process is set to continue with the next round of negotiations, including meetings with representatives of Britain, France and Germany.
After meeting the US envoys, Zelensky said Ukraine values the presence of European countries in the talks. According to him, the sides are focused on a common goal: ending the war.
Meanwhile, Steve Witkoff, the US special envoy, said after his meeting with Zelensky that he is optimistic about the talks held in Kyiv. He described the discussions as “substantive” and “important,” adding that Washington wants the process to continue.
Jared Kushner, a member of the US negotiating team, also said the delegation is seeking further progress in talks related to Ukraine. He added that US President Donald Trump is determined to end the war and create the basis for lasting peace.
Local media had previously reported that Witkoff and Kushner arrived in Ukraine on Sunday. The trip followed their three-hour meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow.
The war in Ukraine began in February 2022 with Russia’s full-scale invasion, and since then multiple diplomatic efforts have been under way to stop the fighting. Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, has in recent months repeatedly hosted political and security meetings with Western officials.
