Ukraine and US explore possible formats for Zelenskyy-Putin talks
Photo: Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelenskyy (collage by RBC-Ukraine)
In the United States, the parties discussed formats for meetings and negotiations at the leaders' level aimed at ending the war in Ukraine, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Today, National Security and Defense Council Secretary and Ukraine’s chief negotiator Rustem Umerov briefed him on the outcomes of meetings with US representatives Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
"Importantly, America remains engaged in diplomacy and, in particular, has acted as a mediator on the issue of a prisoner exchange. Contacts are ongoing at the appropriate level to hammer out the configuration of the exchange. The lists have been handed over, and we expect the American side to play an active role in ensuring the realization of this agreement," Zelenskyy said.
The president noted that possible formats for meetings and negotiations at the leaders' level to end Russia’s war were discussed in the United States.
Separately, Umerov briefed on Ukraine’s international contacts regarding the development of the Drone Deals direction.
"Nearly 20 countries are currently involved at various stages: 4 agreements have already been signed, and the first contracts under these agreements are now being prepared. With other countries, preparatory procedures are underway for political arrangements that will open the way for businesses," Zelenskyy said.
Within the framework of these agreements, Ukraine is already receiving the first results in energy security, particularly regarding fuel supplies. Additional financial inflows are also expected.
According to Zelenskyy, Ukraine is preparing to expand cooperation within Drone Deals with new regions of the world, which will be announced in the near future.
Umerov’s visit to the United States
Before the Ukrainian delegation visited Washington, President Zelenskyy gave Rustem Umerov three specific tasks to discuss with the American side.
The main priorities included coordinating steps to achieve a just peace, strengthening defense support, and resolving humanitarian issues, including the release of prisoners.
Ukraine is preparing for the next stage of diplomatic communication. As the president stated, Kyiv expects representatives of Donald Trump to visit around the turn of spring and summer 2026 for detailed discussions on further cooperation.
In parallel, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized Washington’s position on the peace process. According to him, the United States is ready to act as a mediator, but does not want to waste time on efforts that do not produce real results in ending the war.
