Ukrainian president says 'new ideas' discussed with US envoy for peace timing, formats

ISTANBUL

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Thursday that "new ideas" regarding timing and formats to end the war with Russia were discussed during an hour-long meeting with US envoy Steve Witkoff and President Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner.

Zelenskyy said in an evening address that some documents related to the peace process are already prepared or nearing completion as Kyiv and Washington intensify diplomatic efforts.

"We have some new ideas in terms of formats, meetings, and, of course, timing on how to bring a real peace closer," he said in an evening address, adding that Ukraine’s senior negotiator Rustem Umerov would continue detailed discussions with the American team.

"We are truly working 24/7 to bring closer the end of this brutal Russian war against Ukraine and to ensure that all documents and steps are realistic, effective, and reliable," the president said.

The Ukrainian leader emphasized that while work remains on "sensitive issues," both teams understand how to implement the discussed measures.

"We discussed certain substantive details of the ongoing work. There are good ideas that can work toward a shared outcome and lasting peace. Real security, real recovery, and real peace are what all of us need – Ukraine, the United States, Europe, and every partner who helps us," he added.

Zelenskyy also held talks with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store to coordinate European support, stating that he intends to brief other continental leaders to ensure partners move "at the same pace" toward a shared goal. The Ukrainian leader expressed gratitude for the "kind words and Christmas greetings" shared during the talk with the US delegation.

Zelenskyy said he was joined by a high-level delegation, including Ukraine’s senior negotiator Rustem Umerov, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, and Chief of the General Staff Andrii Hnatov, during the conversation.

A 28-point plan to end the Ukraine war was first put forward by Trump. Since then, work is underway to refine the proposal and make it acceptable to all stakeholders.

Zelenskyy noted that the coming weeks are expected to be intensive as diplomatic pressure continues on Russia to demonstrate that prolonging the war will have "severe consequences."