Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that a delegation led by Security Council Secretary Rustem Umerov is en route to the United States to advance negotiations aimed at concluding Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine. Umerov’s appointment follows the resignation of the previous chief negotiator, Andriy Yermak, who stepped down on Friday after his apartment was searched by anti-corruption detectives.
Zelensky expressed optimism that discussions held in Geneva over the previous weekend would be further developed in upcoming talks. He indicated that the results of those meetings would be “hammered out” during discussions on Sunday. These earlier talks allowed Ukraine to present a counter-offer to proposals made by US Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll to Ukrainian leaders nearly two weeks ago.
Umerov received a clear mandate from Zelensky: “Rustem delivered a report today, and the task is clear: to swiftly and substantively work out the steps needed to end the war,” the president stated on social media platform X. He emphasized the constructive nature of Ukraine’s dialogues with the US, asserting that “Ukraine is working for a dignified peace.”
Yermak, shortly after his resignation, stated that he was heading “to the front,” emphasizing his commitment to Ukraine’s defense. He asserted, “I am an honest and decent person,” amidst a backdrop of significant political turmoil. The recent political upheaval has been fueled by a $100 million corruption scandal in the energy sector, leading to the dismissal of two ministers and now the resignation of Zelensky’s key advisor.
Umerov, who has previously engaged in negotiations with Russian representatives, has denied any involvement in the corruption probe, despite his name being mentioned. His prior negotiations have resulted in successful prisoner exchanges and the return of deceased soldiers’ remains.
As the political landscape shifts, Ukraine faces continued pressure from the United States to reach a peace agreement. The situation for Zelensky has become increasingly precarious, marking one of the most challenging periods since the onset of the conflict in 2022.
On the battlefield, Russia has been making gradual advances, while Ukrainian cities endure lengthy blackouts caused by relentless attacks on the nation’s power infrastructure. Zelensky has described the current moment as one of the most difficult in Ukraine’s history, yet he assured the nation in a recent address that he remains committed to protecting the country’s interests and sovereignty.
