Vitaly Portnikov analyzes the outcomes of talks between US Special Representative Steve Withoff and Jared Kushner with the Ukrainian delegation in Miami. Discussions included a revised 20-point plan, multilateral and separate security guarantees for Ukraine, and a plan for the country’s post-war reconstruction.
Advisors on national security issues from European countries were also present. Russian Presidential Representative Kirill Dmitriev was in the US for consultations with Withoff and Kushner, but the results of these talks have yet to be disclosed.
Russian aide Yuri Ushakov is awaiting Dmitriev's detailed report to define Russia’s position. Moscow uses the negotiation process to buy time in the war. Ushakov has expressed skepticism about the latest changes to the “Trump plan” and doubts real agreements will be reached.
Russian President Putin’s position remains rigid, with conditions effectively leading to the dissolution of Ukrainian statehood. He also threatens Europe with a potential hybrid war in 2026.
Portnikov stresses that realistic prospects for an actual peace are currently lacking, as the differences between parties are deep. Trump focuses not on ending the war immediately but on achieving a sustainable peace, which grants Putin maneuvering space.
A significant note is the absence of US Secretary of State Marco Rubio from the process, reflecting possible doubts about the effectiveness of these consultations. Ultimately, the steps taken by the US and its allies will determine whether diplomacy can bring real peace to Ukraine.
