The peace talks on Ukraine resume after 9 months. What to expect -. The New York Times. The process led by the White House was stopped because of Russian demands from Ukraine to hand over 5,200 square meters of land. km, which Russian forces were unable to capture during the fighting. Then the negotiations were stopped due to the outbreak of the war between the USA and Israel against Iran. Negotiators this week will focus on security guarantees to prevent a return to war if a ceasefire is reached, US officials said. The idea is to move beyond territorial claims and look at broader issues of European security in the hope of breaking the impasse. President Trump, who will not participate in the talks, said the goal is "a big, beautiful deal." The process is led by Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Both also lead diplomatic efforts in Iran and have focused primarily on the conflict since February.
In March 2025, Ukraine offered an immediate and unconditional ceasefire along the current front line - this offer remains in effect. President Vladimir Putin has said that to end the war, about 20% of the territory of the Donetsk region, which his armed forces have never been able to capture, should be transferred to Russia.
Negotiations earlier this year explored compromise options, including the withdrawal of both sides' troops and the creation of a neutral civilian government, but both Russia and Ukraine rejected those proposals.
After the cessation of negotiations, the course of the fighting changed in favor of Ukraine, it recaptured some of the territory in key areas.
The talks this week will examine whether giving Russia a role in shaping the post-war regional security architecture might soften Moscow's demands for the end of the war itself. Some see this approach as a concession to Russia.