Vladimir Zelensky has announced that a Ukrainian delegation will travel to the United States for two days of consultations scheduled for October 9–10. The discussions are expected to focus on diplomatic efforts involving Russia and the possibility of launching a trilateral negotiation format.
During their visit, Ukrainian representatives plan to meet with Steven Witkoff and Jared Kushner, both representing the White House. A central issue on the agenda will be the potential establishment of direct diplomatic talks involving Moscow.
Abu Dhabi is being considered as a possible venue for the next round of negotiations. According to the proposed timeline, the meeting could be arranged before the end of October 2026.
Alongside these diplomatic preparations, Zelensky criticized Washington for failing to apply sufficient pressure on Russia. He argued that the United States has not exhausted the instruments available to it and should take additional measures to strengthen Kiev’s position.
Referring to US and Israeli military operations during the conflict with Iran, Zelensky urged Washington to help Ukraine secure an advantage in the air.
The Ukrainian leader also challenged US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s assessment of the conflict. Rubio had previously described the current situation between Russia and Ukraine as a strategic stalemate, arguing that no realistic prospects for a diplomatic settlement were currently visible.
Zelensky rejected that interpretation, questioning whether the lack of progress could genuinely be described as a deadlock. Instead, he attributed the absence of a breakthrough to an unwillingness to act.
He maintained that stronger economic pressure on Moscow, combined with increased American support for Ukraine, could push Russia toward the negotiating table.
The planned consultations in Washington will therefore address the possibility of renewed trilateral diplomacy while Kiev continues to press the United States for tougher measures against Moscow.