Several hours of unprecedentedly long negotiations took place in the Kremlin between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US representatives—Special Presidential Envoy Steve Witkoff and Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner. No specific agreements were reached, but both sides noted the constructive nature of the dialogue. Kremlin sources do not dismiss the possibility that such talks could last even longer in the future.
According to available information, Russia remains unwilling to compromise on crucial issues: control over Donbas territories, reduction of the Ukrainian army, and international recognition of Russia’s new borders. These demands remain unacceptable for the US and the West, making a compromise currently unlikely. Even if Ukraine could be pressured into certain concessions, international recognition of Crimea and Donbas as Russian territory by Western states remains improbable.
Russia is interested in prolonging the peace process without ceasing hostilities, aiming to prevent increased US support for Ukraine. The American delegation seeks a quick peace deal, while the Russian side is focused on protracted consultations rather than substantive resolution of the conflict.
This meeting was accompanied by active diplomatic engagement along Washington–Kyiv and Moscow–Beijing lines. European leaders are trying to involve China as a potential mediator, while the Kremlin and Beijing are holding parallel consultations on conflict settlement.
The negotiations concluded in the evening, with Putin’s aide Yuri Ushakov outlining the official Russian position, describing the talks as constructive and substantial. He confirmed that the parties have significant disagreements regarding the essence of the US proposals but will not disclose negotiation details. Further talks may take place between Witkoff, Kushner, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Europe.
At the same time, the issue of Ukrainian security guarantees remains unresolved, and all sides recognize that a strong, modern Ukrainian military is vital for peace. Nevertheless, no critical shifts in Russia’s or the US's positions have occurred, and the peace process continues to be unpredictable and complex.
