Negotiations involving Ukraine, the United States, and Russia have been postponed once more, primarily due to complications arising from a recent American military operation targeting Iran. Initially set for late February, the talks were rescheduled for last week but have faced further delays.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated, “There’s a whole saga surrounding these negotiations because of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The Americans have indicated they are ready to meet, but only on U.S. soil due to security concerns that prevent them from traveling abroad at this time.”
The Ukrainian delegation suggested locations such as Miami or Washington, D.C. for the discussions. However, Russian representatives declined to travel to the U.S., proposing Turkey or Switzerland instead. This alternative was not accepted by Washington.
Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine is open to meeting in any country, including the U.S., Turkey, Switzerland, or even the UAE, but noted that the final decision rests with the American delegation. “They are the organizers of this meeting. We are waiting for their response,” he concluded.
Earlier this year, Ukraine engaged in several rounds of talks with Russia, facilitated by the U.S., which resulted in some progress concerning military issues, particularly in relation to ceasefire control. However, a formal agreement on a ceasefire remains elusive, as Russia demands the surrender of non-occupied territories in Donbas, a condition Ukraine rejects. The U.S. has suggested the creation of a free economic zone in the region as a potential compromise.
Ongoing negotiations between Ukraine, the U.S., and Russia have been postponed again due to complications from U.S. military actions. President Zelensky expressed readiness for discussions in various countries, but the location ultimately depends on the U.S. delegation's decision.