Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said Sunday, October 18, that he held discussions with US peace envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner as Washington and Kyiv continue diplomatic efforts aimed at advancing peace negotiations and identifying the next steps toward resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Zelenskiy confirmed the conversation in a post on X, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong cooperation and mutual trust between Ukraine and the United States as both countries work toward potential diplomatic progress.
"Had a conversation with the American President’s envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Peace comes only through strength and cooperation built on trust," Zelenskiy wrote.
The Ukrainian leader said the discussions focused on the outcomes of recent meetings between American and Ukrainian officials in Florida. He described communication between the two negotiating teams as nearly continuous, highlighting their ongoing coordination on diplomatic initiatives.
"In particular, we discussed the results of our teams’ meeting in Florida. Our teams maintain virtually nonstop communication. We are also preparing the next steps in diplomacy," he added.
The latest exchange underscores continued US involvement in diplomatic discussions concerning Ukraine, with Witkoff and Kushner serving as key representatives in Washington's peace efforts.
Zelenskiy's remarks also suggest that both governments are actively reviewing the results of previous consultations while preparing additional diplomatic engagements. However, the Ukrainian president did not disclose specific proposals, potential agreements, or a timeline for upcoming negotiations.
The emphasis on strength and trust reflects Kyiv's position that meaningful peace efforts require close cooperation with international partners, particularly the United States.
The discussions come as diplomatic efforts surrounding the Russia-Ukraine war remain a major focus of international attention. Washington's engagement with Kyiv continues to play an important role in determining whether negotiations can produce tangible progress toward ending the conflict.
While Zelenskiy highlighted the intensity of communication between the two countries, he offered no indication that a breakthrough had been reached.
For now, the latest talks between Zelenskiy, Witkoff, and Kushner signal that Ukraine and the United States remain engaged in coordinating their diplomatic strategies, with further discussions expected as both sides explore possible pathways toward peace.
