Uncertainty remains over security guarantees and territory after Ukraine peace talks in Miami

Negotiations in Miami between Ukrainian representatives and US officials on a potential peace agreement with Russia wrapped up this weekend, with limited progress and persistent questions regarding security assurances and territorial matters, according to Ukrainian authorities.

The intensive discussions began on Thursday, involving US special envoy Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, senior Ukrainian officials Rustem Umerov and Andriy Hnatov. After three days of talks, Ukrainian Ambassador to the US Olga Stefanishyna noted on Saturday that challenging issues remain, but both sides continue working to develop practical and acceptable solutions.

Currently, the most pressing matters involve territorial boundaries and security guarantees, and we are actively exploring effective approaches to resolve them, Stefanishyna added. She indicated that further details would be shared once all information is thoroughly reviewed.

Questions of territory and security have long been central obstacles in any potential peace deal. Ukraine insists that a fair resolution must include robust security guarantees and must not require surrendering additional land to Russia. Earlier this week, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated during a visit to India that Russia intends to secure control over Ukraines eastern Donbas region by any means.

Prior to the Miami talks, Kushner and Witkoff visited Moscow. US officials described their meeting with Putin as very productive, with hopes that the Russian leader aims to end the conflict, although no significant breakthrough was achieved.

Following the Miami discussions, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported a long and constructive phone call with Witkoff, Kushner, and his delegation. He noted that the conversation addressed critical measures to stop the bloodshed and prevent another full-scale Russian invasion. We agreed on the next steps and formats for continued discussions with the United States, Zelensky stated.

Zelensky also highlighted concerns about Russia potentially not honoring any commitments, referencing past incidents. He expects detailed in-person briefings from Umerov and Hnatov regarding the Miami talks. Not everything can be discussed remotely, so close collaboration with our teams on proposals and ideas remains essential, he said.

Further discussions on peace terms are scheduled for Monday in London, where Zelensky will meet with leaders from France, the United Kingdom, and Germany. French President Emmanuel Macron indicated that the talks would focus on the situation and ongoing negotiations under American mediation.

Author: Connor Blake