US Envoy to Hold Ukraine Peace Talks in Berlin
High-Level Meeting Planned This Weekend
The United States will send a senior envoy to Berlin this weekend for talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders, the White House confirmed. The discussions come as Washington intensifies efforts to end Russia’s war against Ukraine through a negotiated settlement.
President Donald Trump has increased pressure on Kyiv since unveiling a peace proposal last month. Critics argue the plan reflects several of Moscow’s key demands, including a requirement for Ukraine to give up strategically important territory.
Peace Plan Triggers Diplomatic Activity
The U.S. proposal, which includes 28 points, has sparked intensive diplomatic engagement between Washington, Ukraine, and European allies. In response, Ukrainian officials recently submitted a revised version of the plan to U.S. authorities.
A White House official confirmed on Friday that Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, will meet with Zelensky and European leaders to review the status of peace negotiations. The confirmation followed a report published by The Wall Street Journal.
Berlin Summit to Show European Support
Germany will host the meetings in Berlin, according to government officials. The talks will continue into Monday, when Zelensky is scheduled to attend a German-Ukrainian business forum alongside Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
Later that day, Merz will also host a broader summit involving European Union and NATO leaders. The gathering is expected to underline continued European backing for Ukraine amid growing diplomatic pressure from Washington.
Security Guarantees Remain Central Issue
The latest U.S.-backed proposal includes the possibility of fast-tracking Ukraine’s accession to the European Union, a move strongly opposed by Russia. However, European leaders and Ukrainian officials insist that security assurances must come first.
France’s presidency said European partners are urging the United States to offer firm security guarantees before Ukraine agrees to any territorial concessions. Ukraine’s ambassador to NATO, Alyona Getmanchuk, stressed that such guarantees must be legally binding and clearly defined.
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