Zelensky Says US Aims for June Deadline to End Ukraine War

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said the United States wants the war between Ukraine and Russia to be brought to an end by June, revealing that both Kyiv and Moscow have been invited to the US for another round of talks as diplomatic efforts intensify.

Speaking publicly, Zelensky said Washington had, for the first time, proposed that Ukrainian and Russian negotiating teams meet on US soil, with discussions expected to take place next week. “America proposed for the first time that the two negotiating teams – Ukraine and Russia – meet in the United States of America, probably in Miami, in a week. We confirmed our participation,” he said.

There was no immediate confirmation from either Washington or Moscow, but US President Donald Trump has consistently pushed for an end to the conflict since returning to office more than a year ago, framing a negotiated settlement as a priority of his administration.

The renewed diplomatic push comes as Russia continues to target Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, triggering further widespread blackouts during freezing winter conditions and placing additional strain on civilians and essential services.

In comments released on Saturday, Zelensky provided details of what was discussed during the second round of US-brokered peace talks in Abu Dhabi, which concluded on Friday without any announced breakthrough. Despite the lack of a concrete outcome, the Ukrainian leader suggested the talks represented steady, if difficult, progress.

“Difficult issues remained difficult,” Zelensky said, referring in particular to territorial questions, including concessions that Ukraine has faced pressure to consider as part of a potential settlement. He made clear that these issues remain highly sensitive for Kyiv.

However, Zelensky noted that the talks marked a new development, with the sides discussing for the first time the possibility of a trilateral meeting involving national leaders rather than just negotiating teams. He cautioned that such a meeting would require careful groundwork, stressing that “preparatory elements are needed for this.”

When asked whether a specific timeline had been set for reaching an agreement, Zelensky said US officials had expressed a clear sense of urgency. “The Americans say that they want to do everything by June,” he said.

He also suggested that domestic political considerations in the United States could be influencing the proposed timeline. “Why before this summer?” Zelensky asked, adding that political factors, including the US midterm elections scheduled for November, could shape Washington’s approach as control of Congress is potentially at stake.