High-level diplomatic talks aimed at ending Russia’s war against Ukraine are taking place in Berlin, where Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is currently present and U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff has arrived for meetings with Ukrainian and European officials.
According to multiple media reports, U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner arrived in Berlin on Saturday morning, checking into a hotel in the German capital ahead of a series of closed-door negotiations. German representatives are also participating in the talks, which are initially being held at adviser level.
Intensified Diplomacy Involving Europe
Discussions between Washington and Kyiv on how to bring an end to Russia’s war are continuing with strong European involvement, reflecting growing recognition that any potential peace framework must be coordinated transatlantically.
The talks are focused on developing a common position among Ukraine, the United States, and European allies regarding a possible diplomatic offer to Russia.
A representative of the French presidency stated that a concrete negotiation proposal toward Moscow must be formulated, while it has been confirmed that French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer will also engage in discussions in Berlin with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, alongside senior NATO officials.
The German government confirmed on Friday (December 11, 2025) that Chancellor Merz would host President Zelenskyy for economic talks and an exchange of views on the current stage of peace negotiations. It was later announced that several European heads of state and government, as well as senior EU and NATO leaders, would also take part in the broader discussions.
U.S. Peace Proposal and Territorial Concessions
Approximately three weeks ago, the United States presented an initial plan to end the war in Ukraine, which in its original form envisioned territorial concessions by Ukraine in favor of Russia. Following strong objections from Kyiv and European allies, the proposal was revised.
Despite these adjustments, Washington continues to expect Ukraine to consider territorial compromises, while Russia has so far shown no willingness to abandon its war objectives or engage seriously in diplomatic negotiations.
Moscow’s continued refusal to compromise remains a major obstacle, casting uncertainty over the prospects of a negotiated settlement despite the intensified diplomatic efforts in Berlin.
