Zelenskiy holds constructive call with US envoy and Kushner amid Russia conflict

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy announced that he engaged in a constructive telephone conversation with U.S. Middle East Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, a senior adviser to former U.S. President Donald Trump. This development comes amid ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, with no ceasefire currently in place and formal negotiations stalled since earlier this year. The call underscores continued diplomatic effort by the U.S. to facilitate dialogue between the warring nations, despite the absence of a breakthrough in peacemaking efforts this year. The market for a potential peace deal between Ukraine and Russia before 2027 is currently priced at 10.5% for a YES resolution, reflecting a slight decrease from 11% a day earlier. The recent interaction between Zelenskiy and U.S. officials appears to have stirred interest, although the source of the report—a social media account—may limit its perceived impact. Meanwhile, the market for a ceasefire agreement by December 31, 2026, saw an increase to 19.5% YES, suggesting market participants see potential for diplomatic progress. The call highlights ongoing international involvement in the conflict, with the U....