US and Ukrainian negotiators met in Florida on Saturday, seeking to revive stalled talks aimed at ending the four-year war.
The conflict erupted when Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, leaving eastern and southern regions under its control amid relentless attacks.
The war has displaced millions, inflicted tens of thousands of military and civilian casualties, and shaken European stability profoundly.
US-led peace efforts have faltered since February, after joint strikes by the United States and Israel triggered turmoil in the Middle East.
Russian and Ukrainian officials had not met since last February in Geneva, leaving diplomatic channels largely dormant for over a year.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the talks, saying the teams met Saturday and would continue discussions on Sunday in Florida.
“The key issue is understanding Russia’s willingness to move toward a genuine end to the war,” Zelensky said in his address.
US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner represented Washington, while Ukraine sent Rustem Umerov and Kyrylo Budanov to negotiate on its behalf.
Witkoff described the discussions on X as “constructive,” focusing on narrowing differences to move closer to a comprehensive peace agreement.
The US welcomed continued engagement, highlighting the talks’ importance in resolving issues that affect broader global security and stability.
As the world watches, diplomats tread carefully, seeking pathways out of Europe’s deadliest conflict since World War II, with stakes remaining alarmingly high.