U.S. Representatives Whitcoff and Kushner Hold Two-Day Talks with Ukraine

During a span of two days, U.S. special representatives Stephen Whitcoff and Jared Kushner held meetings with Rustem Umierov, the Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine, and General Andriy Hnatov, Chief of the General Staff, to conduct constructive discussions aimed at promoting a reliable path to a stable and just peace in Ukraine, according to a statement from the U.S. State Department.

As noted by the department’s press service, the group held its sixth meeting in the last two weeks on December 5. According to the U.S. State Department, Umierov reiterated that achieving a resolution that protects Ukraine's independence and sovereignty is a priority, ensuring the security of Ukrainians and creating a stable foundation for a prosperous democratic future.

“The participants discussed the outcomes of the recent meeting between the American side and the Russians, as well as the steps that could lead to an end to this war. Both Americans and Ukrainians also agreed on the framework of security measures and discussed the deterrent capabilities necessary to maintain a stable peace. Both sides agreed that any real progress towards reaching an agreement depends on Russia's willingness to demonstrate serious commitment to long-term peace, including steps to de-escalate tensions and halt killings,” the department stated.

The sides also separately discussed a future prosperity program aimed at supporting Ukraine's post-war recovery, joint American-Ukrainian economic initiatives, and long-term recovery plans. The American and Ukrainian sides emphasized that a cessation of hostilities and credible steps towards a ceasefire and de-escalation are necessary to prevent the resumption of aggression and to implement a comprehensive reconstruction plan for Ukraine, aimed at making the country stronger and more prosperous than it was before the war,” the statement added.

It is noted that prior to this, Whitcoff and Kushner visited Moscow, where they held negotiations lasting nearly five hours with Russian President Vladimir Putin.