US special envoy Steve Witkoff is scheduled to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and several European leaders in Berlin this weekend as part of efforts to reach a resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The meeting will center on a revised peace agreement proposed by Ukraine.
The Trump administration is aiming for a completed deal by Christmas, although the talks have not yet yielded significant breakthroughs. Among the anticipated attendees are UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
This upcoming discussion occurs shortly after Ukraine submitted its latest version of a 20-point peace plan, which has reignited diplomatic engagement on this long-standing crisis. A key contentious issue continues to be the status of territories in eastern Ukraine, particularly the Donbas region.
President Zelensky has expressed skepticism over US proposals suggesting a potential withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from disputed areas and the establishment of a demilitarized zone. There's concern over the nature of guarantees against future Russian aggression if such measures are enacted.
Despite mixed signals regarding US patience with Zelensky’s leadership, European allies remain committed to supporting Ukraine’s security and financial needs, particularly as negotiations for future stability continue. This includes discussions around redirecting frozen Russian assets to aid in Ukraine's recovery and reconstruction efforts.
The proposed plan could significantly accelerate Ukraine's path to EU membership, an idea that has been under discussion since the onset of the war. The potential for rapid accession remains uncertain but marks a noteworthy shift in the geopolitical landscape.
