Two United States envoys who recently met leaders in Moscow and Kyiv departed the Ukrainian capital on Sunday without announcing a settlement to the war with Russia, according to Ukrainian and US accounts. Kyiv said the delegation delivered new proposals described by a senior Ukrainian presidential official as “more effective,” yet acknowledged there was no immediate resolution.
Envoys shuttle between Moscow and Kyiv
The delegation comprised Steve Witkoff, a business associate of President Donald Trump, and Jared Kushner, Trump’s son‑in‑law. The visit to Kyiv came one day after their meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow and was described as the pair’s first trip to the Ukrainian capital amid more than four years of sustained Russian strikes.
A Ukrainian official told AFP the proposals the Americans brought were different from past efforts and were proving to be “more effective.” The official emphasised that dialogue was ongoing and characterised continued talks as the critical element of the process.
“It’s not the same as it was before. This one now is more effective. They’re still talking. This is actually the most important part.”
Kyiv warns war could extend into winter
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said publicly that the fighting appeared likely to continue into the winter months. While he expressed cautious optimism about reaching understandings with the US delegation, he also appealed for broader backing from European partners if the conflict endures.
Mr. Zelenskyy said Ukraine intends to hold further discussions with the United States, France and Germany, though he offered no detail on timing or agenda. He reiterated his long‑standing position that any lasting solution to territorial disputes ultimately requires direct talks between the two heads of state.
Political and diplomatic dimensions
The Russian government, meanwhile, conveyed confidence that it could press further advances on the battlefield. Moscow has framed its objectives to include not only territories currently occupied but also areas it claims as Russian — terms Kyiv has repeatedly rejected.
Witkoff reportedly told interlocutors that compromise from both sides would be necessary for progress. The delegation’s travel plans were noted by Ukraine’s national rail operator, which posted an image of the envoys under a sign for a “Peace Express” service as they left Kyiv.
- Envoys: Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner
- Meetings: Moscow visit followed by Kyiv visit
- Outcome: No breakthrough announced; talks ongoing
| Envoy | Relation |
|---|---|
| Steve Witkoff | Business ally of President Donald Trump |
| Jared Kushner | Trump’s son‑in‑law |
On social media, Mr. Zelenskyy thanked the US envoys for their visit and underlined the goal he described as central: achieving a peace for Ukraine that is “dignified, reliable, and lasting.” He said Ukrainian authorities were directing all efforts toward that outcome.
Implications for partners and next steps
The delegation’s rapid shuttle between capitals underscores the complex diplomacy being pursued by non‑governmental envoys with close ties to the American president. For Kyiv, the meetings offered another avenue to press for international support as it prepares for the prospect of protracted winter fighting. For Western allies — including Canada — the developments highlight the ongoing need to coordinate political and material support for Ukraine while managing the diplomatic contours of any future settlement talks.
At this stage, Kyiv and the visiting Americans left with expectations of further engagement rather than a negotiated settlement. With both battlefield conditions and diplomatic positions in flux, stakeholders will be watching closely for follow‑up sessions and any concrete proposals that could bridge the long‑standing gaps between Kyiv’s demands and Moscow’s claims.
