In Berlin, high-level discussions are underway aiming to establish lasting peace in the Ukraine conflict. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Selenskyj and US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff have arrived for the talks, which also involve German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Jared Kushner, son-in-law of former US President Donald Trump. Merz emphasized the goal of achieving a durable peace, while Selenskyj intends to present his latest proposals based on Trump’s peace plan. The meetings exclude Russian representatives and focus on Ukraine’s security guarantees and the country’s reconstruction after the war.

The talks are marked by political complexities, including differing expectations from the US, Europe, and Ukraine. Despite the challenges posed by Witkoff’s known sympathies toward Russia, his direct connections to Moscow and Trump are seen as crucial. Chancellor Merz’s role in convening this summit is seen as a diplomatic success, bringing European involvement back to the negotiation table. However, reaching an agreement acceptable to all parties, including Russia, remains uncertain.