Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he held a “very good” and constructive conversation on Christmas Day with US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, as diplomatic efforts to end the Russia–Ukraine war continue to gather momentum.
‘New ideas’ discussed on peace
In a statement, Zelensky said the discussions covered “certain substantive details” of the ongoing negotiations and generated “new ideas on how to bring about real peace”.
“I thank them for the constructive approach, the intensive work, and the kind words and Christmas greetings to the Ukrainian people,” he said.
The Ukrainian leader was joined on the call by senior officials, including Defence Council Secretary Rustem Umerov, who is expected to hold further discussions with Witkoff and Kushner later this week.
Gradual diplomatic movement
Zelensky said Ukraine believes in using every possible opportunity to advance peace efforts. “We believe this is the right approach – not to lose a single day or a single opportunity that can bring the result closer,” he noted.
The talks follow recent meetings in which Ukrainian and Russian delegations separately engaged with American officials. Witkoff has described those interactions as “constructive and productive”.
On Tuesday, Zelensky outlined elements of a 20-point peace framework, calling it a foundational political document involving Ukraine, the United States, Europe and Russia. The proposal includes reciprocal troop withdrawals in parts of the Donetsk region to create a demilitarised zone.
Russia and global reactions
Russia has said it is analysing the proposal. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that the materials were under review, while President Vladimir Putin reiterated that Moscow expects Ukraine to cede the entire Donetsk region for a deal to succeed.
Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said there was “slow but steady” progress in US–Russia talks, while criticising the European Union for what she described as continued escalation.
War continues despite talks
The diplomatic outreach comes amid continued Russian strikes on Ukrainian cities, including Odesa, which has suffered power outages and damage to port infrastructure. Ukraine has also intensified drone and sabotage operations against Russian military targets.
In his Christmas address, Pope Leo appealed for peace, urging all parties to engage in sincere and respectful dialogue