The White House intensified Ukraine peace diplomatic efforts while President Trump maintained firm conditional terms for his personal participation in leadership meetings. Trump announced he would meet with Putin and Zelensky only when discussions produce a near-final agreement, keeping presidential engagement reserved for advanced stages.
Senior American officials received clear orders for continued talks in both Russia and Ukraine, with Special Envoy Steve Witkoff assigned to Moscow and Army Secretary Dan Driscoll tasked with Ukrainian engagement. The coordinated efforts aim to address remaining contentious points in what administration sources describe as a significantly improved peace framework.
Trump claimed meaningful advancement on refining proposals initially drafted by United States negotiators. According to the president, the number of disagreements between conflicting parties has diminished considerably, though several core issues involving territorial control and future security arrangements remain unresolved.
The original peace plan drew sharp criticism from Kyiv and European capitals for provisions viewed as excessively favorable to Russian interests. Multiple rounds of intensive negotiations have produced substantial revisions that administration officials claim incorporate concerns from both Ukraine and its European allies.
Ukrainian President Zelensky emphasized ongoing communication channels with the American side while strategically avoiding confirmation of any specific agreements or commitments. Ukrainian officials indicated that resolving territorial questions central to any lasting settlement would require direct face-to-face discussions between Zelensky and Trump.