Trump envoy to meet Ukraine’s top negotiator in Florida

Ukrainian presidential envoy Rustem Umerov will hold talks with US special representative Steve Witkoff in Florida as early as this week, a White House official confirmed on Wednesday. The meeting comes at a time when direct negotiations between Kyiv and Moscow have largely stalled, with global attention shifting toward other conflicts.

Lull in peace efforts

No further details about the Florida meeting were immediately disclosed. The broader Russia-Ukraine war has taken a backseat in recent months as international focus turned to the US-Israeli confrontation with Iran. Türkiye, which has consistently mediated between the warring parties, continues to call for renewed dialogue and a lasting ceasefire.

Russia urges diplomatic evacuations from Kyiv

Earlier on Wednesday, Moscow warned foreign embassies to evacuate their personnel from the Ukrainian capital, citing possible “retaliatory strikes” if Ukraine launches attacks during Russia’s Victory Day celebrations on May 9. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said a formal note had been sent to all diplomatic missions in Moscow, urging them to take the Defense Ministry’s warning with “utmost responsibility” and ensure the “timely evacuation” of diplomats and citizens from Kyiv.

Zelenskyy highlights Russia’s scaled-back parade

Speaking at the 8th European Political Community summit in Yerevan, Armenia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that Russia has announced it will hold its annual Victory Day parade in Moscow without military equipment. “If that happens, it will be the first time in many, many years. They cannot afford military equipment – and they fear drones may buzz over Red Square,” Zelenskyy said. On April 29, the Russian Defense Ministry said military equipment columns would not take part “due to the current operational situation,” a move widely seen as a sign of battlefield strain.