Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said prospects for ending Russia’s full-scale invasion are stronger now than at any point since the war began, calling the current moment both “challenging and yet optimistic.”

Speaking in Ireland alongside Taoiseach Micheál Martin, Zelensky said ongoing diplomatic discussions have created “a chance to end this war — now, more than ever.”

He confirmed that negotiators have been working from a list of 20 proposed points developed during talks in Geneva and later refined in Florida, though he noted that “some things still need to be worked out.”

“America is taking serious steps to end the war one way or another,” Zelensky said, urging Ukraine’s partners to pursue a “decent, dignified peace,” rather than settling for a temporary pause in hostilities.

U.S. envoys in Moscow

Asked about the visit to Moscow by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, son-in-law of U.S. President Donald Trump, Zelensky said he expects to speak with the American negotiating team immediately after their meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

He added that he may also meet U.S. representatives soon after the U.S.–Russia talks conclude.

“The steps will change throughout the day — even hourly,” Zelensky said. “We will receive certain signals, and if those signals work out — if it is a fair game with our partners — then perhaps we will meet with the American delegation very soon. We will see at what level. It will depend on the signals.”