Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has voiced support for the resumption of peace negotiations involving Ukraine, the United States, and Russia, with the aim of facilitating a direct meeting between national leaders to end the ongoing conflict. The announcement follows discussions in St Petersburg between US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Russian President Vladimir Putin, shortly after Witkoff’s meeting with Zelenskyy in Norway.
Russian officials have indicated that these negotiations could recommence as early as November, with potential talks between the three countries’ teams. Zelenskyy expressed a desire for the talks to focus on ending the war, promoting peace efforts, and preparing for a high-level meeting between himself and Putin. He also mentioned Ukraine’s willingness to support proposals for a ceasefire, an energy truce, and humanitarian measures, such as the return of prisoners. While Kyiv is hopeful for discussions to start in early November, Russia has suggested a later date, potentially November 10, with Abu Dhabi being considered as a possible venue.
Zelenskyy has also indicated openness to an agreement that would freeze fighting along the current front lines, conditional upon Ukraine receiving security guarantees from the United States and Europe. However, the path to negotiations is complicated by ongoing disagreements over territorial issues and Russia’s security concerns.
US envoy Witkoff described the recent diplomatic engagements as constructive and reaffirmed US President Donald Trump’s commitment to pursuing a long-lasting peace agreement. Despite these diplomatic efforts, uncertainty remains over the ability of the parties to resolve their differences sufficiently to arrange a direct meeting between Zelenskyy and Putin.