US Explores Winter De-escalation of Ukraine War, Zelensky Says

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the US is exploring steps for Ukraine and Russia to de-escalate the conflict during the winter period, as talks on a broader peace agreement resume. Zelensky stated that the weeks before winter open a diplomatic window, adding that Russian President Vladimir Putin does not want to clash with US President Donald Trump ahead of midterm elections. He remains skeptical of Russian assurances, citing continued battlefield escalation. US envoy Steve Witkoff hinted at a possible new trilateral peace format after meetings in Moscow and Kyiv. European security advisors from France, Germany, and Britain participated in Kyiv consultations, outlining their requirements for any potential negotiations.