Berlin hosted high-level discussions between US and Ukrainian officials, with the aim of finding a resolution to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff announced that “significant progress” had been made during the talks.
Witkoff stated via social media that the discussions were “in-depth and comprehensive,” covering a 20-point peace plan, as well as economic matters. He confirmed that the parties would reconvene to continue discussions. The meeting, which lasted over five hours, included Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, along with delegations from both the United States and Ukraine.
While the specific proposals under consideration remain unclear, the US delegation expressed optimism about building on the progress made in this initial round of talks.
Dmytro Litvin, an advisor to the Ukrainian President, indicated that both sides had agreed to continue negotiations. He added that Zelenskyy would update the public on developments.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is scheduled to receive several European leaders in Berlin later today. This meeting is intended to coordinate European positions regarding the proposed US plan to end the war. Concerns remain regarding the potential for a diminished European role in any future security settlement.
Prior to the talks, Zelenskyy emphasized that Kyiv seeks a ceasefire based on freezing current front lines, without making prior territorial concessions. Ukraine and its European allies reject any concessions, particularly in the Donbas region of eastern Ukraine, considering them “a reward for the aggressor.”
Zelenskyy has also signaled a willingness to potentially drop Ukraine’s long-standing demand to join NATO in exchange for security guarantees from allies such as the United States.
