Zelensky to Meet Kushner, Witkoff on Peace Framework/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will meet Trump advisers Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff in Berlin to discuss a U.S.-backed peace plan. The talks aim to break through remaining obstacles, including possible territorial concessions to Russia. U.S. officials say a breakthrough is possible, with European leaders supportive if Ukraine seeks a national referendum.
Ukraine Peace Talks Quick Looks
- Zelensky to meet with Jared Kushner, Steve Witkoff in Berlin on Monday.
- Talks include leaders from the U.K., Germany, and France.
- U.S. peace plan includes controversial territorial concessions to Russia.
- U.S. officials see progress after Zelensky hints at a referendum.
- Russia demands full control over the Donbas region.
- U.S. proposal includes a demilitarized zone and “free economic zone” in Donbas.
- European leaders may support a Ukrainian referendum on peace terms.
- A security guarantee modeled on NATO’s Article 5 is in negotiation.
- U.S. plan includes three agreements: peace, security, and reconstruction.
- Trump personally approved Kushner and Witkoff’s involvement after progress.
Deep Look: U.S. Presses Zelensky on Peace as Kushner, Witkoff Head to Berlin
BERLIN, Germany — President Donald Trump’s senior advisers, Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, are expected to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday in Berlin. The discussions will focus on advancing a U.S.-backed peace plan to end the war between Ukraine and Russia — a plan that is nearing a breakthrough but hinges on territorial compromises still under debate.
According to two White House officials, Kushner and Witkoff will also meet with top European leaders from Germany, France, and the United Kingdom, signaling an intensified diplomatic effort from Trump’s administration to secure a ceasefire agreement by year’s end.
A Sensitive Push: Concessions and Referendums
At the heart of the plan lies a contentious issue: Ukraine ceding parts of the Donbas region to Russia. The U.S. proposal includes transforming some of this territory into a demilitarized zone, which Ukraine could agree to under international oversight.
While this has drawn criticism in Kyiv and abroad, a White House official described recent remarks from Zelensky as a potential breakthrough. On Thursday, the Ukrainian leader said the public should ultimately decide on any deal involving territorial compromise, suggesting a national referendum may be possible.
“The people of Ukraine will answer whether these compromises are fair,” Zelensky said.
The United States sees that comment as a green light to proceed with more serious negotiations. Though holding a referendum amid ongoing conflict would be logistically and politically difficult, European leaders have indicated they would support Zelensky if he opts for such a vote.
Russia’s Demands and U.S. Position
Russia continues to demand full control over the Donbas, including areas still under Ukrainian control. The U.S. plan attempts to mediate this by proposing a “free economic zone” in the contested areas, though Zelensky has openly questioned the viability and fairness of such an arrangement.
Despite the disagreements, U.S. officials believe most issues have been resolved, and that only territorial decisions remain before a comprehensive agreement is within reach.
Why This Matters Now
The meeting in Berlin marks a pivotal moment in the Trump administration’s attempt to bring the war to a negotiated close. After a series of virtual discussions with European national security advisers and Ukrainian officials last week, Kushner and Witkoff were dispatched to Europe, a move one official said signals Trump’s personal belief that “there could be a chance at peace.”
Zelensky’s office has not publicly commented on the upcoming meeting. The trip was first reported by The Wall Street Journal.
What Ukraine Could Get in Return
The proposed peace deal includes more than just a ceasefire. According to U.S. officials, three parallel agreements are being developed:
- Peace Agreement – Outlining cessation of hostilities and border terms.
- Security Guarantee – A legally binding commitment, modeled after NATO’s Article 5, that would require Congressional approval.
- Reconstruction Package – A massive economic and infrastructure aid deal to help Ukraine recover from the war.
“This isn’t just about what Ukraine gives up,” a senior U.S. official explained. “It’s also about what Ukraine gains — a path to stability, security, and prosperity.”
The reconstruction deal is designed to incentivize Ukraine to commit to peace by ensuring economic support and international investment for rebuilding war-torn regions.
European Pressure and Internal Debate
Some European leaders are reportedly cautioning Zelensky against rushing into a deal, particularly one that involves giving up territory that Ukraine still controls militarily. The fear is that conceding too much could lead to domestic backlash or weaken long-term sovereignty.
At the same time, the Trump administration is eager to finalize an agreement before Christmas, aiming to cement its diplomatic role in ending the war and sidestep criticism that it is abandoning Ukraine.
What Comes Next
The outcome of Monday’s talks in Berlin could determine whether the U.S. peace proposal moves forward or hits a political wall. With time running short and winter setting in on the battlefield, the urgency is growing.
Officials stress that this is the first time Ukraine has been offered a “day-after vision” — a holistic blueprint for post-war security, economic recovery, and territorial stability.
Whether that vision aligns with Zelensky’s goals and Ukrainian public opinion remains the critical question.
You must Register or Login to post a comment.