Ukraine and US Continue Talks on Ending Russia's War

Zelensky discusses security guarantees and potential compromises as negotiations progress

Mar. 21, 2026 at 11:09pm

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Negotiations aimed at ending the war in Ukraine are ongoing, with a Ukrainian delegation meeting with U.S. Representatives Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner in Miami, Florida. The talks focus on understanding Russia's willingness to engage in a genuine peace process and securing firm security guarantees from the United States and European allies as an alternative to NATO membership.

Why it matters

The timing of these negotiations is significant, as they coincide with increased geopolitical instability in the Middle East, raising concerns that U.S. military support for Ukraine could face delays as Washington prioritizes the situation in Iran.

The details

The Ukrainian delegation, which includes key figures such as Rustem Umerov, Kyrylo Budanov, Serhiy Kyslytsya, and David Arakhamia, is focused on assessing Russia's willingness to end the war 'honestly and with dignity.' Discussions have centered on Ukraine's willingness to consider alternatives to NATO membership in exchange for concrete security guarantees, but Ukraine has rejected a U.S. proposal to withdraw from the Donetsk region and establish a demilitarized zone.

  • The last face-to-face meeting between Ukrainian, Russian, and U.S. officials took place in Geneva on February 17-18.

The players

Volodymyr Zelenskyy

The President of Ukraine, who has emphasized the importance of securing firm security guarantees from the United States and European allies.

Steve Witkoff

A special envoy representing the United States, who described the initial meeting as 'constructive' and focused on narrowing and resolving remaining items to move closer to a comprehensive peace agreement.

Jared Kushner

Former President Donald Trump's son-in-law, who is co-leading the U.S. delegation and underscores the continued U.S. commitment to finding a diplomatic solution.

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What they’re saying

“We must secure firm security guarantees from the United States and European allies, potentially as an alternative to NATO membership.”

— Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine

“The initial meeting was constructive, and we are focused on narrowing and resolving remaining items to move closer to a comprehensive peace agreement.”

— Steve Witkoff, Special Envoy

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.