Zelensky reports diplomatic breakthrough with US envoys amid shifting global priorities
President Volodymyr Zelensky described a “very positive” conversation with US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, signalling renewed momentum for diplomacy in the war with Russia despite Washington’s concurrent focus on the Middle East.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has reported a significant diplomatic engagement with US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, describing their recent discussions as a catalyst for renewed efforts to end the war with Russia. Speaking on the Telegram messaging app on Monday, Zelensky praised the envoys’ readiness to work “as actively as possible” in the coming weeks to advance a settlement.
The conversation took place while Zelensky was in the Moldovan capital of Chisinau, during a stopover on his return to Kyiv from London. The Ukrainian leader had previously held talks with the leaders of Britain, France, and Germany, who have collectively backed a proposal for a direct meeting between Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin to secure a ceasefire.
Zelensky acknowledged that global attention remains heavily concentrated on the escalating conflict in the Middle East, specifically the tensions between Iran and Israel. However, he emphasised that peace in Europe remains a priority on the international agenda. “Our common goal regarding peace in Europe is on the agenda,” Zelensky stated, noting that the US envoys had provided a “positive assessment of Ukraine's position.”
The diplomatic push comes after a period of stagnation in US-brokered talks, which had previously stalled as Washington appeared more focused on the crisis in Iran. The conflict between Ukraine and Russia has now persisted for more than four years, with European leaders increasingly advocating for direct negotiations to halt the violence.
Looking ahead, Zelensky and the US envoys discussed the prospects for further discussions at the upcoming G7 summit in Evian, France. The Ukrainian president expressed gratitude to the United States for its engagement, signalling that diplomatic channels are being actively utilised to seek a resolution to the conflict despite competing global security demands.
