Witkoff and Kushner arrive in Kyiv for second leg of US diplomacy push

US envoy Steve Witkoff and President Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner arrived in Kyiv on Sunday for the second leg of a US diplomacy push aimed at ending the war in Ukraine. This marks their first visit to the Ukrainian capital since the war began. Their arrival comes amid near-constant Russian missile and drone strikes on the Ukrainian capital.

After meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the US envoys were briefed on the condition of St. Sophia's Cathedral, which suffered damage during Russian attacks. The cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, had its windows and frames damaged. Ukrainian President Zelensky expressed gratitude to US President Trump for allowing the trip to occur "from a security standpoint" and emphasized Ukraine's readiness for constructive talks.

He also noted the country's need for air defense interceptors, peace, security guarantees, and a dignified post-war peace. Ukrainian Presidency officials said other delegations, including representatives from France, the UK, and Germany, were present in Kyiv. A temporary 72-hour truce was in effect during their visit, halting airstrikes on each other's capitals.

Despite the truce, Russia continued its bombardment of Ukraine, launching 108 Shahed-type drones and striking at least three locations across Ukraine. The strikes resulted in the death of three people and injured 65 others. During their weekend of diplomacy, Witkoff and Kushner met with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin, followed by a dinner. The US envoys are expected to continue their discussions in the coming weeks.