US-Ukraine security 'framework' discussions to proceed on Saturday, according to State Department

Representatives from the United States and Ukraine will reconvene on Saturday to continue negotiations over a potential framework for a peace agreement aimed at ending Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the State Department confirmed in a statement. Earlier discussions took place in Miami this week.

The U.S. spokesperson's office reported that envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner held "constructive discussions" with the Ukrainian delegation on "developing a credible path toward a sustainable and just peace in Ukraine." Both sides reportedly reached an agreement on security arrangements and deterrence measures that could pave the way for a long-term resolution between Ukraine and Russia.

The State Department did not provide further specifics regarding the proposed security arrangements.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has emphasized that any peace deal must include concrete security guarantees from Western allies, particularly the United States, to prevent further Russian aggression. The Miami talks involved the U.S. and Ukrainian teams meeting Thursday and Friday, with plans to resume on Saturday to continue the dialogue.

The Ukrainian delegation, led by Rustem Umerov, secretary of Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council, stressed that the countrys priority is a settlement ensuring independence, sovereignty, citizen safety, and a foundation for democratic prosperity.

U.S. envoys also discussed recent interactions with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow and considered measures that could help bring an end to the conflict. Both sides acknowledged that meaningful progress toward any agreement depends on Russia demonstrating a genuine commitment to lasting peace, including de-escalation and ending attacks.

Before the Miami meetings, Zelenskyy noted that his delegations goal was to gather complete information on Russia's positions and any pretexts used by Putin to prolong the war and pressure Ukraine. He added that Ukraine remains ready to respond to any developments while working constructively with partners to achieve a durable peace.

Meanwhile, the Kremlin has maintained maximalist demands, including the return of territories in eastern Ukraine under partial Ukrainian control, which Ukraine has rejected. Putin has portrayed confidence despite heavy Russian losses, asserting readiness to continue fighting.

Both countries continue long-range strike operations. According to Ukraines air force, Russia launched 653 drones and 51 missiles overnight, of which 585 drones and 30 missiles were intercepted. Russia claims it shot down at least 121 Ukrainian drones during the same period.

Author: Riley Thompson