KYIV — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the ongoing war with Russia is likely to extend through the upcoming winter season, speaking at a media briefing in Kyiv following extensive consultations with U.S. special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.

The high-level discussions in the Ukrainian capital followed a three-hour closed-door session between the American representatives and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. 

While no formal peace agreement was announced, both sides described the direct dialogue as constructive, with plans established for upcoming joint meetings involving European national security advisers.

Focus on Winter Energy Defense and Security Guarantees

In light of the projected continuation of hostilities into the colder months, discussions centered on securing crucial civilian and military support to sustain Ukraine's infrastructure.

  • Winter Support Package: Ukraine outlined requirements for an emergency assistance package focusing on additional air defense interceptors, grid protection measures, and access to American liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports to offset potential energy shortages.

  • Framework for Sustainable Peace: Ukrainian leadership reiterated that any diplomatic resolution must provide verifiable, long-term security and economic recovery frameworks to deter future aggression.

  • Substantive Progress: U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff noted that while both sides will ultimately need to narrow key differences and accept necessary compromises, the envoys remain encouraged by the initial dialogue held in both Moscow and Kyiv.

De-escalation Understandings and Regional Conditions

The diplomatic trip marked the first visit by Witkoff and Kushner to Ukraine since assuming their roles in Washington's peace push. The envoys traveled to Kyiv via train through Poland following flight route evaluations.

To facilitate the diplomatic mission, both Kyiv and Moscow observed a temporary three-day suspension of direct aerial strikes on each other's capital cities. 

However, active military engagements, long-range drone exchanges, and localized artillery operations continued along front-line areas and regional infrastructure sites across eastern and southern regions.

Negotiating teams from the U.S., Ukraine, and European partner nations are expected to convene in the coming weeks to further evaluate peace proposals and technical frameworks.