Trump Envoys Report 'Real Progress' from UN General Assembly Talks
Discussions on Russia-Ukraine war and US-Iran conflict yield tentative agreements and continued dialogue, according to envoys.
President Trump's peace envoys have reported making "real progress" following a series of intensive meetings held on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York City. Envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner engaged in discussions concerning the Russia-Ukraine war and the US-Iran conflict, among other global issues.
"I sense a sort of feeling of hope and promise. When all these nations come together and they can talk face to face — that’s what drives progress," Witkoff told The Post. "We are all working together to tackle some of the world’s toughest problems and confront challenges head-on that have faced our nations for decades."
Discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev, aimed at resolving the nearly two-year-old Ukraine war, have not yet resulted in a permanent truce. However, an agreement has been reached for the U.S. to license Patriot defensive missile technology to Ukraine. Previously, U.S. officials had sought an energy cease-fire in the conflict, which had been rebuffed by Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Witkoff and Kushner also met with Iranian mediators for over three hours. These discussions have led to further talks through intermediaries regarding a potential reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have also been involved in the Iran peace talks. President Trump had previously rejected Iran's latest ceasefire offer, but mediators anticipate further negotiations. The Trump administration has maintained a firm stance on preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, with economic sanctions and a blockade of Tehran’s naval ports intensifying pressure.
"The US needs assurances this time that Iran is serious and it’s not just them trying to get out of the tough situation they are in," an official stated, noting that disagreements persist regarding the timing of commitments and the sequence of steps each side should take.
Beyond these major conflicts, the U.S. envoys also announced a $2.45 billion reconstruction plan for the Gaza Strip at a Board of Peace summit. "Today, we can point to real progress," Witkoff said at the event. "All of the hostages are home. There is a ceasefire, imperfect as it may be, but it still exists. Humanitarian efforts have achieved historic results with billions of dollars shared, donated, and pledged to meet urgent needs and support the long work of recovery."
Other initiatives announced during the week included plans for the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP), intended to be a key component of a peace deal between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and the establishment of a Trans-Caspian Enterprise Fund.
Witkoff emphasized the administration's approach, stating, "President Trump spoke about the importance of not leaving problems for another day. He has restored American power on the world stage, and he is using his peace through strength agenda to build a safer and more prosperous future for us all."
Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff attending a Board of Peace High Level Briefing.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and the Iranian delegation to the UN watching President M. Pezeshkian speak at the 81st UN General Assembly.
Russian presidential envoy Kirill Dmitriev at a meeting.
U.S. President Donald J. Trump addresses the General Debate of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrives for the 81st United Nations General Assembly.