• U.S. and Ukrainian officials are meeting for a third consecutive day in Miami to discuss peace plans.
• Progress in negotiations is contingent upon Russia's willingness to engage in de-escalation and commit to long-term peace.
• Initial U.S. proposals proposing territory cession from Ukraine have faced criticism.

U.S. negotiators, including Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, met with Ukrainian officials for a third consecutive day in Miami to discuss a framework aimed at ending the ongoing conflict with Russia. The urgency of these talks is underscored by the mutual agreement that "real progress toward any agreement depends on Russia's readiness to show serious commitment to long-term peace," as stated by Witkoff and his Ukrainian counterparts CBS News and BBC.

The discussions come after previous meetings between U.S. representatives and Russian President Vladimir Putin, which did not yield a compromise. Witkoff indicated that the framework discussed included "security arrangements" aimed at ensuring Ukraine's sovereignty while also addressing security guarantees, although specific terms remain uncertain Channel News Asia and Le Monde.

Despite optimism about the prospect of peace, key issues regarding territorial claims and security guarantees continue to complicate negotiations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has asserted that any negotiations must be “backed by pressure on Russia” to ensure effective outcomes BBC and Le Monde.

The U.S. proposal has evolved over time, particularly after earlier drafts faced backlash for perceived leniency towards Russian demands, including expectations for Ukraine to cede strategic territory CBS News and Channel News Asia.