U.S. Envoy to Meet Zelenskyy and European Leaders in Berlin for Ukraine Peace Talks

U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff is scheduled to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders in Berlin to discuss a U.S.-led peace proposal aimed at ending the conflict in Ukraine. The proposal includes the establishment of a demilitarized zone in the Donbas region, with both Ukrainian and Russian forces withdrawing under equal conditions.

The plan also envisions Ukraine joining the European Union by January 1, 2027, a provision supported by Brussels. However, territorial concessions remain a contentious issue. Ukrainian officials have expressed concerns over ceding land to Russia, emphasizing the need for a public referendum on such matters.

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has indicated readiness to hold elections within 60 to 90 days, provided Western allies offer robust security guarantees to ensure voter safety amid ongoing hostilities.

The Kremlin has stated that Russian police and National Guard units will remain in Ukraine's Donbas region even after a potential peace settlement, a position likely to be rejected by Ukraine as a threat to its sovereignty.

As diplomatic efforts continue, the focus remains on resolving territorial disputes and securing lasting peace in the region.