Zelensky Outlines Tasks for Umerov Ahead of US Talks

President Volodymyr Zelensky said Ukraine has outlined three priorities ahead of talks between National Security Council Secretary Rustem Umerov and US officials. These include a new prisoner exchange, advancing diplomatic efforts, and strengthening security cooperation. The talks come as negotiations with Russia remain stalled and Ukraine seeks progress with Western partners. Make us preferred on Google Share Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Bluesky Email Copy Copied Head of the Ukrainian delegation and Ukraine's Defence Minister Rustem Umerov (L) speaks during a press conference after the third round of talks between Russia and Ukraine at the Ciragan Palace in Istanbul on July 23, 2025. (Photo by Yasin AKGUL / AFP) Content Share Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Bluesky Email Copy Copied Flip Make us preferred on Google President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Thursday, May 7, that Ukraine has set key priorities ahead of upcoming talks between National Security and Defense Council Secretary Rustem Umerov and US representatives. According to Zelensky’s statement on Telegram , the discussions will focus on humanitarian issues, diplomacy, and security cooperation. Follow our coverage of the war on the @Kyivpost_official . “The first is the humanitarian track. We hope it will be possible to carry out a new stage of prisoner exchanges,” Zelensky said. Zelensky said the second priority is advancing diplomatic efforts, noting that Ukraine remains in constant contact with the United States and is aware of parallel communication between partners and Russia. “We are working to bring a dignified peace closer and guarantee security,” he said, adding that Russia has shown little willingness to engage constructively, even regarding ceasefire proposals. The third priority involves specific security tasks related to cooperation with the United States. Zelensky said he expects a detailed report from Umerov following the meetings. The president also said Ukraine is preparing agreements with European partners on so-called drone deals and expanding joint technological cooperation. “Security must increase,” Zelensky said. On Wednesday, Bloomberg reported that Umerov is expected to travel to Miami this week to meet US President Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff. The expected meetings come as broader peace negotiations remain stalled over a proposed 20-point plan, security guarantees, and Russia’s territorial demands. Other Topics of Interest Ukraine Hits Russia’s Perm Refinery With Long-Range Drones Ukraine said it struck a major oil refinery in Perm, nearly 1,500 kilometers away, again on Thursday, following earlier attacks a week prior. Russian outlets confirmed the strike and reported that drones hit a building near a defense-linked facility, though the broader impact on Russia’s oil revenues remains unclear. Key disagreements include control over parts of Donbas and the status of the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. Previous rounds of talks have yielded limited progress, with major sticking points still unresolved. The planned talks also come amid increased scrutiny surrounding Umerov. Recently released recordings linked to a corruption investigation suggest possible connections between senior officials and a scheme involving up to $100 million in alleged kickbacks tied to defense procurement. The claims remain under investigation and have not been proven in court. Separately, a public anti-corruption body under the Defense Ministry has called for Umerov’s suspension pending clarification of alleged links to a sanctioned businessman and a defense supplier. Kyiv Post is Ukraine’s first and oldest English news organization since 1995. Its international market reach of 97% outside of Ukraine makes it truly Ukraine’s Global – and most reliable – Voice.