Andrea Innocenti On Wednesday, October 21, the Norwegian capital hosted a high-level meeting bringing together Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, and Finnish President Alexander Stubb . The stated objective: to establish the basis for a partial ceasefire , define security guarantees for Ukraine, and prepare for a possible summit between Kyiv, Washington, and Moscow.
The proposals that emerged during the Oslo talks
According to statements released at the press conference, the delegations discussed four central themes: security guarantees inspired by NATO's Article 5, a more streamlined model called “ Article 5 light ” proposed by Italy, a post-conflict economic prosperity plan , and the future structure of European security.
Zelensky stressed Ukraine's willingness to explore various ceasefire options, noting that any reduction in hostilities is welcome if it saves lives.
Elements of peace ready for Moscow
Finnish President Alexander Stubb highlighted the presence of “ real progress ” both in the short term and on the broader framework of a negotiated solution.
He stated that some proposals would be forwarded to St. Petersburg the following day, where the American envoy would present the results to the Russian summit. Stubb avoided describing the meeting as a turning point, noting that peace requires patience, but war does not wait.
The role of the United States and Trump's statements
Steve Witkoff 's arrival in St. Petersburg, scheduled for the following day, was described by Støre as "a crucial step in paving the way for a possible leaders' summit." Meanwhile, President Donald Trump reiterated that the United States had paid $350 billion to Ukraine and that "Europe is tired." Trump also stated that Russia "would like to make a deal," but that it was up to Zelensky to want to end the war.
Tensions in military cooperation
Zelensky confirmed that US intelligence sharing on Russian missile launches is operational again, calling it " a system that works and a very good thing ." However, he rejected the suggestion that Ukraine is suffering a military defeat, arguing that the loss concerns lives and time rather than territory.
Additional Controversies: Starlink and Musk's Protest
According to sources at the Wall Street Journal, Elon Musk has ordered a speed restriction for Starlink in Ukraine, hindering the use of offensive drones. The news has been the subject of discussion in Washington, with references to conversations between Musk, Trump, and White House officials. While not yet officially confirmed, the issue has added further tension to the already complex relations between Kiev and the US.