Zelenskyy Aims for Concrete Answers from US Envoys in Dublin

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has outlined his expectations for an upcoming meeting with US special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Speaking at a press conference in Dublin on the evening of November 11, 2026, Zelenskyy noted that the American representatives traveled to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin immediately after holding negotiations in Abu Dhabi. He stated that the US envoys departed for Russia carrying concrete proposals and that he is eager for them to return to Dublin with concrete answers.

The meeting between Zelenskyy and the US delegation is scheduled for the evening of November 12. Witkoff and Kushner are expected to arrive in the Irish capital after concluding their discussions with Putin earlier on the same day. Zelenskyy acknowledged a degree of uncertainty regarding the outcome, stating that while he does not fully believe the envoys will arrive with definitive answers, he maintains a sense of hope for a positive development.

The Ukrainian president emphasized that all parties are currently working toward achieving a tangible result in the peace process by the end of the year. A primary focus of the upcoming discussion in Dublin will be the Russian response to issues that were raised during the recent talks in Abu Dhabi. Zelenskyy indicated that the US negotiators are expected to convey Russia's position on several key matters, starting with the humanitarian dimension.

Regarding humanitarian efforts, Zelenskyy mentioned that the possibility of exchanging prisoners of war was discussed. The proposed format involves the exchange of 1,000 prisoners for 1,000, with the potential for the number to increase to 1,200 for 1,200. He described such an agreement as very positive and expressed the view that there is no obvious reason for Russia to refuse, while noting that anything can happen in the negotiations.

Security guarantees for Ukraine represent the second major issue on the agenda. Zelenskyy explained that several different formats for these guarantees were explored during previous discussions. He expects to receive Russia's stance on this critical matter through the American mediators. Additionally, the topic of a ceasefire covering energy facilities, critical infrastructure, and maritime areas is also being addressed, with the understanding that the US side would raise these points with the Russian leader.

Zelenskyy stated that he expects to receive at least a response to these issues during the evening meeting in Dublin. Beyond bilateral exchanges, the possibility of a trilateral meeting at the level of heads of state is under consideration. Such a high-level gathering would provide an opportunity to discuss the territorial issue, which remains a central point of contention in the conflict.

The Ukrainian president also stressed the vital importance of European representation in the peace process. He noted that a signal has been received from the American side indicating a more favorable attitude toward including Europe at the negotiating table. Zelenskyy highlighted that this marks a change from previous dynamics, where Europe was often on the sidelines. He specifically referenced the Abu Dhabi talks, noting that Europe was not present as an equal partner in that instance.

Ukraine seeks to ensure that European representatives participate in the next round of negotiations as full partners rather than observers. Zelenskyy arrived in Ireland on the evening of November 11, following a visit to Denmark. The focus in Dublin is now on leveraging the proximity of the US and Russian leadership discussions to secure meaningful progress toward a lasting peace agreement.