Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has outlined the primary objectives for Rustem Umerov, the Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine, as he travels to Miami for meetings with U.S. representatives on May 7.
Zelensky emphasized three main goals: enhancing humanitarian efforts, advancing diplomatic negotiations, and addressing specific security directives related to U.S.-Ukraine cooperation. He expressed hope for a new phase in the release of prisoners and acknowledged ongoing communication with American officials regarding dialogue with Russia.
In a Telegram post, Zelensky stated, “We are in constant communication with the American side and are aware of their discussions with Russian counterparts. We are working to facilitate a just peace and ensure security.” He noted that the Russian side has not shown constructive engagement, even regarding ceasefire arrangements.
The president also highlighted ongoing discussions with European partners concerning drone agreements, aiming to finalize deals previously established at high levels and to enhance collaborative technological efforts.
Bloomberg reported that Umerov’s trip to Miami will include a meeting with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, though the specific agenda for their discussions remains undisclosed. Sources indicated that Witkoff was initially expected to visit Ukraine alongside Jared Kushner, but that plan is now uncertain. Zelensky confirmed that both were invited but had yet to confirm their visit while maintaining communication with Ukrainian officials.
Additionally, the Ukrainian President’s office confirmed Umerov’s travel to the U.S. Last week, a significant phone conversation took place between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, lasting one and a half hours. Trump described the discussion as “very good,” mentioning topics such as Ukraine and Iran, and proposed a brief ceasefire in Ukraine.
Since taking office in January 2025, Trump has stressed the urgency of ending the conflict in Ukraine. The U.S. has acted as a mediator in a series of negotiations that have yet to yield a ceasefire. Key issues remain unresolved, particularly territorial disputes, with Russia insisting on control over the entire Donetsk region as a precondition for dialogue, a demand that Ukraine finds unacceptable.
The last direct tripartite negotiations occurred in February, with subsequent contacts halted following the onset of hostilities between the U.S., Israel, and Iran.
Ukrainian officials are set to engage in crucial discussions in Miami aimed at humanitarian, diplomatic, and security issues. The outcomes of these meetings could influence ongoing negotiations with Russia.
Source: Bloomberg