Miami, December 06, 2025
U.S. and Ukrainian officials report progress in Miami peace talks on December 5-6, advancing a security framework aimed at ending the war in Ukraine. The discussions emphasized the critical role of Russia’s commitment to achieving lasting peace.
Progress on Peace Framework
Senior U.S. and Ukrainian negotiators met at the Shell Bay Club in Hallandale Beach, Florida for a second consecutive day to refine a potential peace deal based on a plan proposed by former President Trump. The talks, led by U.S. envoys Steven Witkoff and Jared Kushner and Ukrainian figures Rustem Umerov and General Andri Hnatov, focused on establishing a security framework that includes deterrence measures to secure a durable peace after the conflict.
Both sides agreed on key elements of postwar security and discussed plans for reconstruction, economic recovery, and cooperative initiatives to support Ukraine’s future stability. Ukrainian representatives emphasized that any agreement must fully preserve Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and the safety of its citizens, while building a foundation for democratic governance.
Russia’s Role Stressed
A joint statement by the U.S. and Ukraine underscored that genuine progress toward a peace agreement hinges on Russia’s willingness to demonstrate serious commitment by de-escalating the situation and halting hostilities. The parties urged Moscow to cease attacks and stop further territorial advances to enable meaningful negotiations.
Background of Talks and Russian Response
The Miami discussions followed a five-hour meeting in Moscow on December 2 between U.S. envoys and Russian President Vladimir Putin. President Trump described the Moscow talks as “very good,” with indications that Putin was open to reaching an agreement. Russian official Yuri Ushakov characterized the talks as “constructive” but noted that key territorial compromises remain unresolved, though some U.S. proposals are “more or less acceptable.”
Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who previously engaged with Ukrainian officials in Florida, described the peace process as productive but complex, involving many interconnected issues that require careful navigation.
Informal, Backchannel Diplomacy Setting
The choice of venue—a private golf and lifestyle resort owned by envoy Steven Witkoff—reflects the Trump administration’s preference for informal, high-level backchannel diplomacy aimed at advancing the peace initiative away from formal diplomatic protocols.
Next Steps and Outlook
U.S. and Ukrainian officials are scheduled to continue their talks on December 6 to further develop the peace plan’s details. The critical next phase depends on Russia’s response: whether Moscow will make concrete moves toward de-escalation and enter substantive negotiations based on the framework outlined by the U.S. and Ukraine.
President Trump has expressed cautious optimism about the prospect of a deal but reiterated that progress requires Russia to halt fighting and desist from seizing additional Ukrainian territory. The unfolding diplomatic efforts remain closely watched by policymakers and international observers as the conflict’s resolution hinges on Russia’s commitment to peace.