Diplomatic Moves Ahead of Possible US Envoys' Visit to Moscow
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has laid out a detailed plan to end the war, while a Russian expert says that US President Donald Trump's representatives are expected to arrive in Moscow with concrete proposals. The statements come amid reports of continued trilateral talks and a possible visit by the US envoys.
Zelensky, speaking to journalists, described a three-part proposal that includes a ceasefire, the creation of a free economic zone, and discussions on the roles of the EU and NATO. He said the ideas were joint efforts with Americans and Europeans, not exclusively Ukrainian.
"Together with Jared (Kushner – ed.) and Steve (Witkoff – ed.), we agreed to put all these discussions on one page – what the real possibilities for ending the war are," Zelensky said, according to an Ukrinform correspondent. He explained that the Americans proposed a free economic zone as a buffer, with both sides taking equal steps back, and that a third party would administer the zone.
The Ukrainian leader added that everyone had responded positively to the proposals, with no objections. He also said that more ideas from the American side were expected.
Meanwhile, Oleg Karpovich, head of a department at the Diplomatic Academy of MGIMO, told TASS that Witkoff and Kushner "will not come empty-handed; they are bringing specific ideas." He described their role as intermediaries engaged in shuttle diplomacy.
Karpovich also highlighted internal divisions within the Trump administration, saying some favor normalizing relations with Russia while others oppose Russia and support Ukraine. He reiterated Moscow's position that the root causes of the conflict must be addressed and the original goals of the special military operation remain unchanged.
On the topic of a ceasefire, Karpovich said that a pause could be exploited to rearm Ukraine, and therefore is unacceptable to Russia. However, he noted that the foundation laid during talks in Anchorage still offered opportunities for cooperation.
Zelensky Sees Limited Window for Diplomacy
Zelensky also expressed a sense of urgency, saying the window for ending the war is from the G20 in the United States until the end of summer 2027, after which the US presidential election process begins. He described this period as the most active for diplomacy.
He also characterized Russian President Vladimir Putin as wanting to constantly demonstrate strength, unwilling to engage in dialogue, and seeking maximum escalation.
Background: Geneva Talks and Previous Contacts
The latest round of trilateral talks between Ukraine, the United States, and Russia took place in Geneva on February 17–18. Kyiv is expecting a visit by Witkoff and Kushner, following their numerous visits to Russia. A TASS source previously reported that they may visit Kyiv and Moscow before the end of August.
In July, Zelensky spoke with Witkoff and Kushner, discussing ways to step up diplomatic efforts to bring peace closer.