In a diplomatic move reflecting the accelerating pace of political efforts to end the ongoing conflict, the Ukrainian side announced that it had held what it described as "substantive" talks with representatives from the United States. Rustam Umarov, a senior Ukrainian official, revealed that negotiators in Kyiv held intensive meetings with US envoys Steve Wittkopf and Jared Kushner, with discussions focusing on strategic issues including economic development and security guarantees.
Dimensions of the talks and the timing of Davos
These talks are particularly significant given their timing and the figures involved, notably Jared Kushner, son-in-law of former US President Donald Trump, Special Envoy Wittkopf, and US Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll. This high-level coordination suggests a shared desire to formulate a post-war vision, including the "prosperity plan" that Umarov alluded to on social media.
Significant progress is expected in the coming days, as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that the Ukrainian delegation is preparing to continue these consultations during the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. Zelenskyy is placing great importance on this international forum to sign a formal agreement with the United States regarding security guarantees, which he considers a cornerstone of any future settlement.
Security context and field situation
These diplomatic moves come as Kyiv seeks clear commitments from its Western allies. The Ukrainian leadership insists that any ceasefire agreement with Russia must be accompanied by solid security guarantees to prevent a resumption of hostilities. In his daily televised address, Zelenskyy explained that work is underway to prepare the necessary documents to end the war, despite his continued skepticism about Moscow's intentions.
On the ground, the situation remains complex and dangerous. While negotiations continue behind closed doors, Russian forces continue to target Ukraine's energy infrastructure. The Ukrainian president noted that Moscow is focusing its missile strikes daily on energy facilities, exacerbating the suffering of civilians.
Winter challenges and reconstruction
Ukraine faces immense challenges as winter approaches, with some 58,000 workers across the country working around the clock to repair the damage to electricity and heating networks caused by Russian airstrikes. Zelensky described the situation in the capital, Kyiv, as "very difficult," requiring urgent international support.
In the context of European support, the head of the Ukrainian president's office, Kyrylo Budanov, announced that Italy is sending heating equipment to support the hardest-hit areas, in an effort to alleviate the impact of the harsh winter and the ongoing attacks. All eyes remain on Davos next week to see if diplomatic efforts will succeed in achieving a real breakthrough that paves the way for lasting peace.
