Washington’s intention to seek an end to the war by the beginning of summer was revealed by the country’s president, while confirming that the United States, Russia and Ukraine are moving towards a new round of talks, likely next week on American soil.
In his statements made public, the Ukrainian president said that for the first time they proposed a direct meeting of the two delegations, Russia and Ukraine, in the United States, with a possible location in Miami. “We have confirmed our participation,” he stressed, stressing, however, that Kiev is not going to accept any agreement concluded in his absence, especially regarding the crucial issue of territories.
No progress in talks in Abu Dhabi
The latest negotiations, under American mediation, took place in Abu Dhabi in two rounds, but without substantial progress. Zelensky admitted that “tough issues remain difficult,” making specific reference to pressures Ukraine is under for territorial concessions, but also to the impasse over its nuclear power plant, which has been under Russian control since the beginning of the invasion.
The idea of a tripartite meeting at the level of leaders, not just representatives, was also put on the table for the first time, with Zelensky noting that such a thing requires serious preparation. At the same time, he revealed that the American side has proposed the creation of a “free economic zone” in disputed areas of eastern Ukraine, a proposal that Kiev treats with reservations, asking for “fair and reliable rules.”
Escalation of Russian strikes on energy
While diplomacy tries to find a way out, the war continues unabated. Russia has stepped up attacks on Ukraine’s energy grid in recent months, causing widespread power, heating and water outages in one of the coldest periods of winter.
Last night alone, according to the Ukrainian Air Force, more than 400 drones and nearly 40 missiles were fired, with air defenses shooting down the vast majority. The Ministry of Energy spoke of significant damage to substations and thermal plants, while the private company DTEK described the attack as the tenth massive since October 2025.
The effects are dramatic on the civilian population, with hundreds of thousands of citizens left intermittently without electricity and heating, even in sub-zero temperatures. In Kiev, residents are once again taking refuge in metro stations for protection from shelling.
Political pressures and fears of blocking Ukraine
Zelensky linked Washington’s rush to domestic political developments in the US, noting that midterm elections in the fall of 2026 are putting pressure on the Trump administration. “Let’s not be naive,” he said, expressing concern that under that weight a deal could be sought with Moscow that would leave Ukraine out of decisions about its own future.
At the same time, he called on European allies to further strengthen their support, calling for air defenses, fighter jets and closer coordination.
