Zelenskyy Speaks With Witkoff and Kushner, Praises US Attempts to 'Reinvigorate Diplomacy'
Is there reason to be optimistic about U.S. peace efforts or has there been a frustrating lack of progress?
Above: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy holds a call with U.S. representatives on June 8, 2026. Image credit: Ukraine Presidency Press Office
The Spin
Pro-Ukraine narrative
Zelenskyy had a very positive conversation with Witkoff and Kushner and he appreciates the efforts of U.S. representatives to work in the coming weeks to reinvigorate diplomacy aimed at ending Russia's war. While Ukraine understands that the world's attention has shifted to Iran, the shared goal of peace in Europe remains on the agenda.
Pro-Russia narrative
Russia has seen very little progress towards ending the war since last year's summit between Putin and Trump in Anchorage, Alaska. At that summit, Russia agreed to U.S. proposals but has since seen little effort to convince Ukraine to accept the terms. Meanwhile, the U.S. has continued to sanction Russian companies and provide weapons shipments to Ukraine.
