New york: A Ukrainian delegation led by Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko on Friday began its visit to the US. The head of the presidential office, Andriy Yermak, said the delegation, which also includes First Deputy Foreign Minister Serhiy Kyslytsya, met in New York with US President Donald Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff.

According to Anadolu Agency, Yermak emphasized the importance of pushing for real diplomacy and implementing agreements from the Washington summit. He noted the coordination efforts between the US and Ukraine. Yermak also briefed Witkoff on Russia's actions, including a recent missile and drone strike on Kyiv that Ukraine reported killed 23 people, including four children.

Yermak expressed Ukraine's support for President Trump's determination and the efforts of international partners to achieve lasting peace. He mentioned that Ukraine positively views the peace proposals from the United States, but lamented that these initiatives are being delayed by Russia. He highlighted Kyiv's readiness for direct negotiations at the leaders' level and the need for international pressure to encourage Russia towards genuine peace efforts.

Additionally, Yermak extended an invitation to Witkoff to visit Ukraine soon. President Trump has been working to end the war in Ukraine since starting his second term in January, having met with both President Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump hopes for a bilateral summit between the Ukrainian and Russian presidents.

Ukraine is seeking solid security guarantees, while Russia has emphasized the need for thorough preparation before any meeting between Putin and Zelenskyy. Russia has also rejected the presence of NATO troops on Ukrainian territory as part of any potential settlement.