Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed on December 26, 2025, that discussions with U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner have advanced proposals to resolve the nearly four-year conflict with Russia. The talks, described by Zelenskyy as "a really good conversation," focused on new formats for peace negotiations and timelines for implementation, according to a statement published on his Telegram channel.
The Ukrainian leader recently unveiled a revised 20-point draft peace plan, streamlining earlier proposals criticized for favoring Moscow. While territorial disputes remain unresolved, Zelenskyy emphasized the need for direct engagement with U.S. leadership to address sensitive issues. Ukraine’s chief negotiator Rustem Umerov is scheduled to hold further talks with U.S. counterparts this week.
Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that Russia is analyzing peace documents delivered by its envoy Kirill Dmitriev following U.S. consultations. Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova reiterated Moscow’s openness to legally binding agreements respecting international law but accused European nations of prolonging hostilities through financial incentives.
Zakharova added that Russia remains prepared to formalize non-aggression commitments toward NATO and EU members through comprehensive treaties, contingent on reciprocal terms. The developments mark heightened diplomatic activity as both sides navigate complex geopolitical stakes in the conflict’s fifth year.
