Miami, FL – A joint statement released by the United States and Ukraine expresses optimism following three days of discussions held in Miami, Florida, with European allies. The talks centered on a proposed peace plan for the ongoing conflict, although Russia has downplayed expectations and rejected suggested revisions.
The statement, issued by US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Ukrainian Chief Negotiator Rustem Umerov, indicated that the meetings focused on refining a 20-point peace plan, unifying positions on security guarantees for Ukraine, and discussing timelines and implementation steps. The two sides affirmed Ukraine’s commitment to achieving a just and lasting peace, emphasizing that any agreement must form the basis for a stable future, not simply a cessation of hostilities.
Priorities outlined in the statement include ending the fighting, ensuring security, and creating conditions for Ukraine’s long-term recovery and stability. The statement also praised the United States for its leadership and continued support for Kyiv.
Kremlin Downplays Progress
In contrast to the positive assessment from Washington and Kyiv, the Kremlin has minimized hopes surrounding the Miami discussions, deeming proposed amendments to the American plan unacceptable. Washington reportedly presented an initial 28-point plan last month, which Kyiv and its European allies considered too favorable to Moscow. Revisions were subsequently made following consultations in Berlin.
Moscow confirmed that its envoy is in the United States to receive the revisions and relay them to the Kremlin, denying any preparations for trilateral negotiations. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that the Russian envoy will review the American and European proposals and subsequently inform Moscow.
Amidst continued military escalation, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy cautioned that “real signals from Russia remain negative,” citing attacks along the front lines and strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure. Zelenskyy accused Russian forces of launching approximately 1,300 attack drones and over 1,000 guided aerial bombs in a single week, in addition to various types of missiles, primarily targeting critical infrastructure.
