Berlin Ceasefire Talks: A Bid for Peace amidst Tensions

Germany hosts U.S. and Ukrainian delegations for ceasefire talks in Ukraine ahead of a summit with European leaders and President Zelenskiy. The U.S. envoy signals potential progress after years of conflict. Europe shows support for Ukraine amidst growing pressures and changes in international relations.

Germany prepares to host U.S. and Ukrainian delegations for weekend talks on a potential ceasefire in Ukraine, preceding a summit with European leaders and President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in Berlin on Monday, according to a German official. U.S. President Donald Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, along with son-in-law Jared Kushner, will also attend the discussions aimed at resolving the ongoing Ukrainian conflict.

Washington's decision to send Witkoff, an experienced negotiator in U.S.-Ukraine-Russia matters, suggests optimism for progress after the prolonged war following Russia's 2022 invasion. An unnamed U.S. official confirmed Trump's willingness to join the talks, contingent on fruitful developments.

European allies are rallying to support Ukraine, with Germany, France, and Britain working to refine a U.S. peace proposal that calls for Kyiv to make significant concessions. As tensions mount, Ukrainian territories face frequent attacks, exemplified by the recent blackouts caused by missile strikes in Odesa.

(With inputs from agencies.)