Zelensky: Trump Envoys Bring Message That Russians Are Ready to Negotiate

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that the message received from US President Donald Trump's special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner was unequivocal: the Russians are ready to negotiate. The envoys had visited Moscow on September 5 to meet Putin, then traveled by train to Kyiv on September 6 for talks with Zelensky.

Mission to Unblock Diplomacy

According to Zelensky, the delegation came primarily to unblock the diplomatic process and brought several new proposals. The core message from Moscow was that Russia has signaled readiness to enter negotiations. Despite this, Zelensky remained openly skeptical — Russia's ongoing military operations and the recent escalation of drone and missile strikes do not, in his view, reflect any genuine desire for compromise.

Winter Deescalation Package

Zelensky revealed that discussions focused partly on a potential winter package — measures both sides could implement before and during winter, running parallel to broader peace talks. Topics covered included energy infrastructure, grain shipments, electricity facilities, and oil and gas exports. The goal is to find steps that bring the parties closer to peace by or during winter. The US also supports a winter package specifically for Ukraine, including air defense and energy assistance.

Trilateral Talks Possible

A new round of US–Ukraine–Russia trilateral talks remains possible, though no decision has yet been taken. Zelensky suggested Ukraine will use September and October for diplomacy, pointing to the upcoming UN General Assembly in New York as a potential venue. He also called for additional US sanctions on Russia: Putin needs money — he wants money to continue the war.