Ukraine's Chief Negotiator in US for Stalled Peace Talks

Ukraine's chief negotiator, Rustem Umerov, has arrived in Miami for talks with US representatives at a time when peace negotiations between Kyiv and Moscow have virtually stalled.

The main sticking point remains the Donbas, particularly the Donetsk region, where Russia is demanding the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from territories it has failed to seize. Kyiv, however, refuses to cede the areas it controls.

Washington has reportedly shifted its focus towards the conflict with Iran in recent months, reducing the intensity of diplomatic engagement over Ukraine. The last direct trilateral talks involving the US took place in February.

Tensions have been further heightened by failed ceasefire attempts. Russia proposed a brief halt in fighting during the 9 May celebrations, but Ukraine has described this as an effort to protect the military parade in Moscow and put forward its own proposal for a longer ceasefire. No agreement has yet emerged.

(reuters, mja)