Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized that the outcome of yesterday's meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump's special envoys – Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner – does not mean Moscow has rejected the so-called American plan to end the Russia-Ukraine war. Peskov noted this was only the first exchange of views in a constructive format and that the work process and compromise search are ongoing.
This indicates the Kremlin does not want open conflict with the Trump administration, fearing new sanctions. At the same time, Putin avoids any real agreements that could lead to ending the conflict, but seeks to maintain working contacts with the US.
After hours-long negotiations, Yuri Ushakov, Putin’s aide on foreign policy, stated that no real compromise had been achieved so far. The US envoys left Moscow immediately without visiting Kyiv or any European leaders, confirming no tangible agreements were reached.
Observers note that the Kremlin demonstrates diplomatic flexibility to avoid sanctions, preserve the illusion of dialogue, and refrain from binding commitments for peace. The West faces a choice – strengthen sanctions against Russia, including oil restrictions, and influence its partners such as China, or seek new diplomatic initiatives.
Expert Vitaly Portnikov stresses that only radical, systematic pressure can push the Kremlin to change stance. Without real efforts and rejecting illusions of a diplomatic breakthrough, the situation will remain unchanged and the Russia-Ukraine war will continue.
