Zelenskyy says 'new ideas' discussed with US envoys on Ukraine peace

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that significant progress is being made in diplomatic efforts to end the war with Russia, following an hour-long meeting with a high-level U.S. delegation. In an evening address, Zelenskyy revealed that "new ideas" regarding the timing and formats for peace were discussed, and that some documents related to the process are already prepared or close to finalization.

Key discussions and ongoing negotiations

Zelenskyy met with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, former President Donald Trump's son-in-law and adviser. "We have some new ideas in terms of formats, meetings, and, of course, timing on how to bring a real peace closer," the president said. He noted that while work remains on "sensitive issues," both sides understand how to implement the discussed measures. Ukraine's lead negotiator, Rustem Umerov, will continue detailed discussions with the American team.

Efforts to coordinate with European partners

In parallel with U.S. talks, Zelenskyy is working to ensure alignment with European allies. He held discussions with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store to coordinate support and stated his intention to brief other European leaders. The goal is to ensure all partners supporting Ukraine move "at the same pace" toward the shared objective of a sustainable peace, which Zelenskyy described as delivering "real security, real recovery, and real peace."

Context of the U.S.-backed peace plan and next steps

The diplomatic push centers on refining a 28-point peace plan initially proposed by former President Donald Trump. Zelenskyy indicated the coming weeks would be intensive, with continued pressure on Russia to demonstrate that prolonging the conflict will carry "severe consequences." The Ukrainian leader was joined in the talks by Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha and Chief of the General Staff Andrii Hnatov, underscoring the meeting's strategic importance.