US representative Jared Kushner has reported noticeable progress in diplomatic efforts to end the Russia–Ukraine war. He said the next round of talks is set to be expanded to include European partners.
Kushner wrote about this on X.
The US President’s special envoy noted that, after several months’ pause, it has been possible to resume direct talks between the sides. He said participants had made progress in understanding Russia’s and Ukraine’s positions, exploring possible solutions and identifying next steps.
"We have made significant progress in understanding both sides’ concerns, identifying possible solutions and shaping the path forward," he wrote.
According to Kushner, Russia and Ukraine agreed to bring European partners into the next round of talks. This should make it possible to discuss not only territorial issues but also Europe’s future security architecture after the war ends.
No Broader Agreements Will Be Made Without Ukraine’s Participation, Kushner Says
The US side believes that a lasting cessation of hostilities requires reliable security guarantees, conflict-prevention mechanisms and mutual commitments to de-escalation. Kushner also stressed that, during his conversation with Zelenskyy, the sides agreed to stay in close contact.
He assured that broader agreements on European security would not be made without taking Ukraine’s security interests into account. At the same time, discussions of the interconnected issues of security and territory will proceed in parallel. With the exception of humanitarian arrangements, no final decisions will be taken until an agreement is reached.
Separately, the US side is working to organise the largest prisoner exchange since the start of the war. Kushner said it could potentially allow thousands of people to be reunited with their families.
Significant Differences Remain Between the Sides
"We hope both sides will demonstrate the goodwill and seriousness of intent needed to implement this important step," he noted.
Kushner added that the formats for the talks, the timetable and additional details are expected to be announced soon. He acknowledged that significant differences remain between the sides, but said the US side is determined to continue its diplomatic work.
- On 12 November, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met in Ireland with US President Donald Trump’s special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. They had returned from Moscow, where they held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
- During the meeting, the sides discussed the results of talks with the Russian delegation and further steps to end the war. Zelenskyy reported an agreement on the largest exchange of prisoners of war since the start of the full-scale war, as well as on involving European representatives in the next round of talks.