Peace Plan Discussions Between US and Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held discussions with US peace envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, focusing on mechanisms to ensure Russia's adherence to a potential peace agreement to conclude the conflict with Ukraine. Zelensky stated that Ukraine is committed to continuing cooperation with the United States to achieve peace. Topics included various aspects and key points aimed at ending the conflict and preventing future large-scale invasions.
Simultaneously, US and Ukrainian officials are conducting a third day of talks in Miami regarding US efforts to mediate a peace deal with Russia. Rustem Umerov, Secretary of Ukraine's National Security Council, and Steve Witkoff described their two days of talks as constructive. They reported an agreement on the framework of security arrangements and discussions on deterrence capabilities necessary for sustained peace. The statement indicated that the prospect of ending the conflict depends on Russia's willingness to undertake de-escalation measures and cease hostilities.
Ongoing Hostilities
During this period, Russia conducted further air and missile strikes across Ukraine. Ukrainian authorities reported that Russia launched 653 drones and 51 missiles on Friday night. One strike impacted a railway hub in Fastiv, southwest of Kyiv, resulting in the destruction of the main station building and damage to rolling stock. Ukraine's energy ministry confirmed that Russian attacks targeted energy facilities in eight regions, causing power outages. Russia asserted that its targets included military-industrial sites, energy infrastructure, and port facilities.
International Reactions and Diplomatic Engagements
French President Emmanuel Macron communicated with Zelensky, expressing solidarity and stating France's commitment to collaborate with partners to secure de-escalation and impose a ceasefire. Macron also confirmed his participation in upcoming talks in London on Monday alongside Zelensky, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. These discussions are set to address ongoing US-Ukrainian negotiations regarding Ukraine's post-war security.
Two weeks prior, the four leaders virtually convened to discuss a European peacekeeping force for potential deployment to Ukraine following a ceasefire. Sir Keir Starmer has consistently emphasized Ukraine's right to self-determination and stated that a coalition peacekeeping force would play a role in guaranteeing the country's security. Russian President Vladimir Putin has rejected the concept of such a force, declaring any troops deployed to Ukraine as legitimate targets.