War ends in month? US, Ukraine discuss possible deal timeline with Russia – Reuters
Photo: Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky (Getty Images)
Participants in the US–Ukraine talks discussed the possibility of reaching a peace agreement with Russia as early as next month, in March 2026, according to Reuters.
Read also: There's progress: New details emerge from Abu Dhabi talks
The agency reports that three sources familiar with the matter described the goal as ambitious. At the same time, they believe the timeline is likely to slip due to a lack of agreement on a key issue - territory.
Five additional sources said that under the framework being discussed, any agreement would be put to a referendum held simultaneously with national elections.
"The US negotiating team - led by special envoy Steve Witkoff and President Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner - has expressed to Ukrainian counterparts in recent meetings in Abu Dhabi and Miami that it would be best if that vote occurred soon," the report says.
According to the sources, US negotiators said President Donald Trump is likely to focus on domestic issues as the November congressional midterm elections approach. That would leave senior US officials with less time and political capital to finalize a peace deal.
Moreover, two sources said US and Ukrainian officials discussed the possibility of holding elections and a referendum as early as May. Several other sources familiar with the talks described the US-proposed schedule as unrealistic.
"The Americans are in a hurry," one source said, adding that while a vote could be organized in less than six months, it would still require significant time.
Ukraine, for its part, wants a ceasefire during the voting period to safeguard the integrity of the referendum, noting the Kremlin’s track record of failing to honor ceasefire commitments.
"Kyiv's position is that nothing can be agreed until the security guarantees for Ukraine from the United States and partners are in place," a source explained.
Peace talks
On February 4–5, a second round of peace talks between Ukraine, the United States, and Russia took place in Abu Dhabi.
Following the meetings, the parties described the discussions as "constructive." According to National Security and Defense Council Secretary Rustem Umerov, the delegations discussed mechanisms for implementing a ceasefire and monitoring a halt to hostilities.
Earlier today, President Volodymyr Zelensky said the Ukrainian delegation is returning home, while preparations continue for the next round of trilateral talks. He previously noted that the negotiations are expected to take place in the coming weeks.
