US, Ukrainian officials discuss pathway toward durable peace ending conflict with Russia

By Yasin Gungor

ISTANBUL (AA) - US Special Envoy Steven Witkoff and Jared Kushner, an unofficial advisor to President Donald Trump, his father-in-law, held their sixth meeting in two weeks with Ukrainian officials, discussing steps toward ending the war, the State Department said Friday.

The two days of "constructive" talks with Ukrainian National Security and Defense Council Secretary Rustem Umerov and Chief of General Staff Andriy Hnatov focused on "advancing a credible pathway toward a durable and just peace in Ukraine," according to a department readout of the talks.

Umerov reaffirmed that Ukraine's priority is securing a settlement that "protects its independence and sovereignty, ensures the safety of Ukrainians, and provides a stable foundation for a prosperous democratic future."

The group also talked about the results of recent American meetings with Russian officials and steps that could lead to ending the war, which is nearing the four-year mark.

American and Ukrainian sides discussed necessary deterrence capabilities to sustain lasting peace and agreed on a framework for security arrangements.

Both parties emphasized that real progress toward any agreement "depends on Russia's readiness to show serious commitment to long-term peace, including steps toward de-escalation and cessation of killings."

The parties will reconvene again on Saturday to continue advancing discussions.