Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that US intelligence sharing regarding Russian missile attacks is now operational following a meeting in Oslo with Steve Witkoff, a special envoy for President Donald Trump. The comments mark a shift in tone after recent tensions between Kyiv and Washington over the withholding of critical early warning data.
Intelligence and Starlink Access
Zelensky expressed gratitude for the resumption of early warning systems, which provide alerts on incoming ballistic missiles. He emphasized the importance of this data for protecting civilians, including children and adults, who can now hear when attacks are imminent. The Ukrainian leader also highlighted discussions regarding access to SpaceX’s Starlink satellite network, which Ukraine relies on for military communications and drone operations. Recent reports indicated speed restrictions on the platform, prompting a bipartisan group of US senators to call for an investigation into the limitations.
Before the Oslo meeting, Zelensky held a constructive discussion with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The conversation focused on the need for early warnings, missile interceptors, and reliable satellite connectivity. Finnish President Alexander Stubb, who participated in the talks, noted that genuine progress was made on peace proposals but cautioned that patience would be required to see results.
Next Steps in St Petersburg
The immediate focus now shifts to Russia. Witkoff is scheduled to meet President Vladimir Putin in St Petersburg on Wednesday to present the proposals agreed upon in Oslo. Jared Kushner, another key Trump envoy, will join the discussion via video link. A US official described the Oslo talks as very productive, noting a strong alignment at the working level among the US, Ukraine, and European partners on next steps.
Putin has not yet publicly commented on the latest developments. However, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that the Kremlin would listen to Witkoff’s offers while ruling out any political concessions. European leaders, including Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, stressed that Europe must remain at the table during any discussions about ending the war.
Ongoing Tensions and Casualties
The diplomatic progress comes against a backdrop of strained relations between the US and Ukraine. Trump has recently suggested that Ukraine needs a new president and that someone else should negotiate on its behalf. He has also blamed Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil refineries for rising fuel prices in the US, a claim Kyiv rejects. Vice President JD Vance described Ukraine as a partner with divergent interests rather than a formal ally, particularly regarding strikes on Russian energy infrastructure.
Despite the diplomatic shifts, the conflict remains deadly. Russian drone attacks continued on Tuesday, resulting in at least 10 deaths across Ukraine. Four people were killed in Kyiv and its region, four in the eastern Donetsk region, and two in the central city of Dnipro. Zelensky reiterated that Ukraine is ready for negotiations to end the war but warned that the country is losing people due to ongoing Russian attacks. Strong security guarantees for Ukraine were also discussed in Oslo, alongside proposals for an energy ceasefire.
Source: BBC
