With a summit in Miami set for this weekend, President Donald Trump’s envoys are seeking to seal a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia. Trump warned on Thursday that Ukraine needs to “move quickly” to avoid Russia changing its mind.
Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff will represent the US in the talks with the Russian delegation. This follows recent discussions in Berlin with Ukrainian officials. The administration is seemingly trying to finalize a deal before the political landscape shifts.
Trump noted that the parties are “getting close,” but emphasized the risk of delay. “I hope Ukraine moves quickly because Russia is there,” he stated. He warned that Russia often “changes their mind” when the opposing side takes too long to agree.
The main obstacle to a deal is the territorial dispute. Ukraine refuses to cede land, particularly the Donbas, while Russia demands concessions. The intransigence of both sides on this issue makes a quick agreement difficult.
Russia currently occupies Crimea and parts of four other regions. The Kremlin is demanding a Ukrainian withdrawal from the Donbas. With US officials noting Russia’s lack of compromise, Trump’s warning adds to the pressure on Ukraine to make a decision.
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