Peace discussions in Miami show limited progress amid international concern

Saturday 06 December 2025 - 10:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Peace discussions in Miami show limited progress amid international concern

The third day of US–Ukraine peace discussions in Miami concluded with measured progress on a potential postwar framework for Ukraine, as both sides acknowledged that any concrete results would depend on Russia’s willingness to pursue a genuine path to peace.

Ongoing talks in Miami

American and Ukrainian delegations met for three consecutive days at Shell Bay in Hallandale Beach, the private venue owned by US real estate figure Steve Witkoff. Alongside White House adviser Jared Kushner, Witkoff represented the United States in meetings with Ukraine’s defense chief Rustem Umerov and General Andrii Hnatov, who heads the country’s general staff.

In a joint statement, both delegations confirmed that discussions focused on the “framework of security arrangements” to guarantee lasting stability in Ukraine after the war. They also explored plans to rebuild the country’s economy through joint US–Ukraine initiatives and long-term recovery projects. Officials stressed that while a strategy for deterrence and peace support is emerging, a definitive breakthrough will depend on Moscow’s intentions.

Stalemate after Moscow visit

Earlier this week, Witkoff and Kushner held a nearly five-hour session with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. That meeting, described by the Kremlin as “useful and constructive,” ended without consensus. Putin reportedly accepted only limited parts of the US proposal and warned that Russian forces would continue fighting unless Ukraine withdrew from contested areas.

Umerov reiterated that Ukraine’s position remains anchored on sovereignty, safety, and democracy, while President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the need to identify whether Moscow is serious about ending the conflict or merely prolonging it under new terms.

Europe seeks inclusion in the process

European leaders have expressed unease about being left outside the evolving discussions. During a visit to China, French President Emmanuel Macron stressed the need for “unity between Americans and Europeans” on Ukraine policy. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz also met with Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever to coordinate an EU initiative using frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts.

The ongoing diplomatic exchanges underscore growing international pressure for a coherent, inclusive peace process that balances US-led dialogue with Europe’s strategic role. Despite setbacks in Moscow and limited progress in Miami, analysts note that these engagements mark the most serious multi-channel contact between Washington, Kyiv, and Moscow in months.