Ukraine’s Peace Talks Progress Amid US-Russia Dynamics and Diplomatic Challenges

Ukraine has entered a new stage of the negotiation process with Russia, but without the advantage that potential Tomahawk missile deliveries could provide. In Kyiv, diplomacy and support from allies are expected, however the path to a peaceful settlement remains uncertain.

In recent days, the country’s leader has focused on the need for American weapons for Russia’s vulnerable deep rear. He tried to persuade the U.S. president to sell such weapons during two weekend conversations, and before traveling to Washington he instructed top aides to meet with the missile manufacturer.

However, the trip to the United States changed the circumstances: reports from Washington indicated that the U.S. president had received a call from Vladimir Putin and, it seemed, had rejected the missile deliveries, instead leaning toward resuming face-to-face peace negotiations at the negotiating table.

“I hope we can end the war without thinking about Tomahawks.”

“Mr. Trump has fallen again for Putin’s old trick,” commented Oleksandr Merezhko, head of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Verkhovna Rada, underscoring that such dynamics reduce the prospects for rapid progress toward peace.

The Kyiv scenario remained unchanged: Ukraine has long been asking American partners to support its position, but Moscow continues to hint at a new round of peace talks as a pressure tool.

There is growing concern that the pace of negotiations could slow down due to Washington’s disappointment with the speed of the peace process. Ukraine is preparing for meetings, but clearly states that moving forward with further steps should be warranted by real actions.

According to feedback, Moscow may propose a short pause in hostilities to give Ukraine the opportunity to repair energy facilities after a week of strikes. Also, the IAEA reported a local ceasefire near the Zaporizhzhia NPP, which would facilitate repairs to the lines and cooling of the reactors.

“This demonstrates the power of Tomahawks. Weapons do not necessarily have to be used to be effective and to force Putin to react. So the pressure works.”

The negotiation process continues, and Ukraine hopes for concrete steps, not merely symbolic statements. Zelensky’s clear stance signals readiness to move forward only with real actions in the peace talks.

“I am a realist.”

In light of considering new financial instruments from the EU and the International Monetary Fund, Ukraine expects support enabling stabilization and restoration of its energy and economic systems over the long term. Proposals for loan programs and financing remain a key element of stability.

Why This Matters Now

Coordinated work among allies and realistic diplomatic steps remain key to preserving the pace of recovery and minimizing the impact on critical sectors. Security and economic conditions are tightly intertwined in a crisis, and stable international support should become the foundation for a future stabilized Ukraine.

Ukraine continues to seek a balance between pressure on the aggressor and concrete actions that will ensure real progress in the peaceful settlement and economic recovery. This will affect not only the current state but also the long-term prospects after the end of the conflict.