Ukrainian and Russian negotiators presented conflicting narratives this week about progress made during U.S.-mediated discussions in Miami, as diplomatic efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict enter a critical phase. The weekend meetings marked the first high-level talks involving all parties since September 2025.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told reporters in Kyiv on Monday that draft proposals now include 90% of Kyiv's demands, describing the framework as "quite solid." The plan reportedly outlines Ukraine's path to EU membership and proposes maintaining an 800,000-strong peacetime military force.
"Neither side will achieve all objectives through negotiation," Zelenskyy cautioned, while revealing details of proposed security arrangements involving French and British forces with U.S. support. Separate documents address European energy security and reconstruction financing.
Russian negotiator Kirill Dmitriev offered no substantive comments beyond confirming continued dialogue, stating only that "positions require further alignment." The contrasting postures come as U.S. mediators led by special envoy Steve Witkoff work to bridge remaining gaps on territorial disputes and security guarantees.
Analysts note the proposed congressional review of bilateral security agreements could complicate implementation timelines, particularly given current political dynamics in Washington. With winter conditions stabilizing frontlines, diplomatic sources suggest a window for negotiation may remain open through Q1 2026.
