Witkoff-Putin Talks in Moscow Yield No Progress on Ukraine
Recent discussions in Moscow between Steve Witkoff, a special envoy to Donald Trump, and Russian President Vladimir Putin’s advisers regarding the ongoing Ukraine conflict resulted in no significant advancements. The dialogue, lasting five hours, was described as constructive but fell short of finding common ground.
Talks Yield No Breakthrough on Ukraine Conflict
Yuri Ushakov, a senior adviser to President Putin, stated the talks were “rather useful and substantive.” However, specific proposals on peace were not finalized. Ushakov acknowledged that although they did not move further away from peace, no compromise has been reached concerning territorial disputes, a critical issue for resolution.
Key Discussion Points
- The framework of the US peace proposal was discussed.
- Moscow’s demands remain unchanged; Ukraine must cede certain territories.
- Putin seeks acknowledgment from the US regarding the annexed territories.
- Maintaining military presence in contested areas continues to be a point of contention.
Ushakov’s comments indicated that significant work is still needed in both Washington and Moscow to facilitate further discussions. Interestingly, despite the ongoing crisis, Russian demands persist in calling for the full withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from all territories, including those never controlled by Russia.
Context of the Meetings
The talks were anticipated in Moscow to pave the way for a potential one-on-one meeting between President Trump and President Putin. However, Trump previously canceled a planned summit in Budapest, citing insufficient progress in negotiations. The Kremlin had hoped the recent talks would enhance their negotiating position.
Witkoff’s sixth visit to Moscow came as the Kremlin seeks to solidify its stance on a previously proposed 28-point peace plan, which Moscow now describes as the “US plan.” Leaked recordings imply the plan was largely formulated by Russian officials, including Kirill Dimitriev and Ushakov, who were both in attendance at the latest discussions.
Future Prospects
Following the meeting, Ushakov noted that both Witkoff and his colleague Jared Kushner vowed to return to Washington without making a stop in Kyiv. Reports suggest they may seek to engage with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in a European location en route back to the US. As the situation evolves, both sides appear committed to maintaining lines of communication while struggling to reach consensus on key issues.
