Talks in Moscow yesterday between President Vladimir Putin and US envoy Steve Witkoff yielded “no compromise” on the thorny issue of the Ukrainian territories seized by the Russian military. Witkoff traveled to the Russian capital to present Washington’s plan to end the war, which is nearing its four-year mark.
The American delegation, which included the son-in-law and advisor to US President Donald Trump, Jared Kushner, spent nearly five hours in the Kremlin with the Russian leader. They discussed the Washington-backed plan, which was presented two weeks ago and has since undergone extensive revisions following consultations with Ukrainian and European representatives.
US-Russia talks on Ukraine: Constructive dialogue, critical disagreements
Kremlin diplomatic advisor Yuri Ushakov summarized the talks: “We were able to agree on some issues (…), others drew criticism, but the important thing is that a constructive discussion took place and that the parties expressed their willingness to continue their efforts.”
However, the core issue remains unresolved. Regarding the occupied Ukrainian territories, which Russia currently controls approximately 19% of, Ushakov stated that “no compromise has been selected yet,” and no “solution” has been found. He added that “certain American proposals could be discussed,” but characterized the overall conversation as “useful” while cautioning that “much work remains” to strike an agreement. This warning comes as Russian troops accelerate their advances on the front lines.
Putin’s warning to Europe
Hours before meeting with the US envoys, Vladimir Putin issued a fresh threat to European nations, accusing them of attempting to “hinder” Washington’s peace efforts. Speaking to journalists on the sidelines of an economic forum, Putin warned: “We have no intention of engaging in war with Europe, but if Europe wants it and starts [a war], we are ready.”
For his part, US President Donald Trump reiterated that resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict remains a complex undertaking. “It’s not an easy situation, believe me. What a quagmire,” the Republican leader stated, backtracking on his previous campaign promise to end the war “in one day.”
Related: Zelensky Sets Conditions for Peace as Macron Reaffirms Europe’s Role
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