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High-level peace negotiations in Moscow between Russian President Vladimir Putin and United States envoys have concluded without an immediate breakthrough, highlighting the immense challenges remaining in ending the Russo-Ukrainian war. President Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, accompanied by advisor Jared Kushner, met with Putin at the Kremlin for talks described by Russian officials as constructive, yet deeply divided on core issues.
According to NBC News, Putin stated that Russia is ready for "serious" negotiations and acknowledged that a recent draft plan, refined during previous consultations between US and Ukrainian officials in Geneva, could serve as a "basis" for a future deal. However, the Russian leader appeared to double down on maximalist demands, insisting that any ceasefire is contingent upon Ukrainian troops withdrawing from territories Moscow claims but does not fully control, specifically in the Donbas region.
The marathon session, which reportedly lasted five hours, underscored the Trump administration's accelerated diplomatic push. While photographs from the meeting showed BBC News describing a friendly atmosphere with smiles exchanged between Witkoff and Putin, the substance of the discussion revealed a stark gap between the warring factions. Russia continues to push for the recognition of "current territorial realities," a euphemism for its occupation of eastern and southern Ukraine, while Kyiv and its European allies view such concessions as a non-starter that would reward aggression.
The current diplomatic initiative centers on a controversial 28-point plan. Recent reports indicate that while the US and Ukraine have harmonized their positions on security guarantees, the Kremlin views certain clauses—such as those demanding Russia refrain from future aggression against Europe—as requiring significant revision. Al Jazeera noted that the talks are occurring against a backdrop of intensified rhetoric, with Putin warning of the potential for broader conflict if Russian strategic interests are ignored.
European leaders remain skeptical of the direct track between Washington and Moscow. Officials in Brussels have warned against any settlement that compromises Ukrainian sovereignty or bypasses European security architecture. As negotiations continue, the situation on the ground remains volatile, with both sides digging in for a prolonged struggle should diplomacy fail.
