Moscow: A senior envoy appointed by United States President Donald Trump and his son in law Jared Kushner met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Tuesday to explore the possibility of ending the war in Ukraine. The visit comes at a tense moment when both sides are still far apart on key conditions for peace.
Steve Witkoff, who was named as a special envoy to engage Russia, is leading the effort on behalf of Washington. Before arriving in Moscow, he held discussions with Ukrainian representatives and United States officials in Florida. Those talks were described as productive, but both sides acknowledged that several major disagreements still remain.
The talks in Moscow are expected to focus on whether a framework can be created to move toward a ceasefire. People familiar with the discussions say the United States proposal includes ideas such as security guarantees for Ukraine and long term economic support. At the same time, a leaked version of the plan has faced criticism for suggesting that Ukraine may need to accept the loss of territory controlled by Russian forces.
Russian officials have repeated that any peace deal must include recognition of Russias control over occupied regions, restrictions on the Ukrainian military, and a guarantee that Ukraine will not join the NATO alliance. Ukraine has rejected those demands and insists that all occupied territory must be returned, including Crimea and areas of eastern Ukraine.
The war continues on the ground while the diplomatic efforts are under way. Russian troops have advanced in some frontline areas in recent weeks. Reports from both sides confirm continuing attacks near several cities as civilians remain at high risk.
European leaders have backed Ukraine and have warned that any agreement should not reward military aggression. They have also expressed concern that the United States may be pushing for a deal that Ukraine views as unfavorable. Despite this, officials in Washington say negotiations are still in the early stages and no final decisions have been made.
Observers say the Moscow meeting marks one of the most significant direct diplomatic contacts between the United States and Russia since the war began nearly four years ago. Whether the talks will lead to progress or more disagreement remains uncertain.
Further discussions are expected in the coming weeks and both sides are facing pressure to show whether diplomacy can bring the conflict closer to an end.