Key Developments
- Trump sends envoy Steve Witkoff to Moscow for Putin talks
- Zelenskyy confirms Ukraine ready to advance with US-backed peace framework
- Both leaders express willingness to meet once deal is finalized
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has declared Kyiv’s readiness to advance with the US-backed peace framework to end the war with Russia, while President Donald Trump confirmed dispatching his special envoy to Moscow for direct talks with Vladimir Putin.
Zelenskyy’s Statement to Allies
Addressing the Coalition of the Willing – approximately 30 nations supporting Ukraine – Zelenskyy stated the Geneva-developed framework is prepared for the next phase. According to an AFP-accessed speech copy, he declared: “Ukraine has the framework developed by our teams in Geneva. That framework is on the table, and we’re ready to move forward together.”
However, he acknowledged unresolved issues requiring direct discussion with Trump, stating: “And I am ready to meet with President Trump – there are sensitive points to discuss, we have them still.”
Trump’s Moscow Mission
Minutes before Zelenskyy’s address, Trump announced via Truth Social that Special Envoy Steve Witkoff would travel to Moscow to bridge remaining gaps. The President wrote: “In the hopes of finalizing this Peace Plan, I have directed my Special Envoy Steve Witkoff to meet with President Putin in Moscow,” noting only “a few remaining points of disagreement” persist.
Trump emphasized he would meet both leaders “soon” but “ONLY when the deal to end this War is FINAL or, in its final stages.”
Broader Implications
Zelenskyy later suggested the peace plan’s principles could evolve into “deeper agreements” during his daily address. He stressed: “I am counting on further active cooperation with the American side and with President (Donald) Trump. Much depends on America, because Russia pays the greatest attention to American strength.”
