In Miami, a high-stakes diplomatic meeting unfolded as Russia’s top envoy, Kirill Dmitriev, sat down with U.S. President Donald Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner. The talks, reported by the Russian state news agency RIA Novosti, are part of the Trump administration’s month-long push for peace in the Ukraine war.
Diplomatic Efforts in Miami
Kirill Dmitriev told reporters Saturday that the discussions are proceeding constructively. He added, “The discussions are proceeding constructively. They began earlier and will continue today, and will also continue tomorrow.” The meeting took place in Miami, a location chosen for its symbolic neutrality and accessibility for both sides.
Trump’s Peace Agenda
The U.S. has launched an extensive diplomatic effort to end the nearly four-year conflict. Trump’s administration has already held meetings with Ukrainian and European officials in Berlin earlier this week, aiming to shape a U.S.-proposed plan that could bring an end to hostilities. However, the push has encountered sharply conflicting demands from Moscow and Kyiv.
Russian Perspective
Russian President Vladimir Putin has recently signaled that Moscow is digging in on maximalist demands. He expressed confidence that the Kremlin would achieve its military goals if Kyiv didn’t agree to Russia’s conditions in peace talks. Putin’s stance comes as Russian troops inch forward on the battlefield, despite suffering huge losses.
Ukrainian Response
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Saturday that much will depend on the U.S. posture after discussions with the Russians. A day earlier, Ukraine’s chief negotiator reported that his delegation had completed separate meetings in the United States with American and European partners. These meetings are intended to coordinate support and strategy for Ukraine’s defense.
European Funding
On Friday, European Union leaders agreed to provide 90 billion euros ($106 billion) to Ukraine to meet its military and economic needs for the next two years. The agreement fell short of bridging differences with Belgium, which would have allowed the EU to use frozen Russian assets to raise the funds. Instead, the EU borrowed the money from capital markets.
Key Takeaways
- Russia’s envoy met Trump’s team in Miami, with talks described as constructive.
- The U.S. and Russia continue a week-long peace push that includes Berlin meetings with Ukraine and Europe.
- Putin maintains a hard line, confident the Kremlin can win militarily if Kyiv rejects its terms.
- Ukraine’s leadership stresses U.S. support as crucial after talks with Russia.
- The EU has pledged €90 billion to Ukraine, but missed a chance to use frozen Russian assets.
The Miami talks underscore the complexity of the Ukraine conflict, where diplomatic initiatives collide with hard-line military objectives. As the U.S., Russia, and European partners navigate these tensions, the outcome of the negotiations will shape the region’s future for months to come.
