In a critical meeting, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Steve Witkoff, the U.S. Special Envoy, to address the United States’ proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine. Putin requested that Moscow’s views be relayed to Washington, a Kremlin spokesman confirmed today.
During the meeting, which occurred on Thursday night, Putin urged Witkoff to communicate additional messages to U.S. President Donald Trump. Putin expressed conditional support for a ceasefire but emphasized the need for clarification on several details before any agreement. Trump’s subsequent statement termed the discussions as ‘very good and productive.’ He expressed optimism on Truth Social, indicating there was a ‘very good possibility that this terrible war might finally end.’
Ukraine, under severe military pressure following Russia’s large-scale invasion three years prior, has endorsed the ceasefire proposal. Despite Russia’s battlefield advancements and potential advantages, Putin may be hesitant to agree to a ceasefire immediately. Russian forces, bolstered by North Korean troops, are nearing full control of the strategically important Kursk region, posing significant setbacks for Ukraine.
President Trump has been proactive, advocating for peace efforts. He described Ukrainian troops as being surrounded by Russian forces and has strongly urged Putin to show leniency. In response, Putin indicated willingness to spare the troops if they surrender in the Kursk area. Nevertheless, Ukraine’s military leadership disputes this, alleging Russian reports are politically motivated fabrications.
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There are plans for a potential phone call between Putin and Trump to address unresolved issues, according to Kremlin spokesperson Peskov, who noted the necessity of such communication. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also expressed cautious optimism after a G-7 meeting in Canada. He highlighted the need for further briefings on Witkoff’s discussions with Putin over the weekend.
American officials have shown readiness to explore technical aspects of a ceasefire in upcoming weeks. Given the complex dynamics and differing objectives of Moscow and Kiev, a temporary halt in hostilities could take considerable time. Trump’s campaign had previously promised a resolution within 24 hours, later revised to a hopeful six-month timeframe.
The change in tone from Putin towards the U.S. indicates a shift in relations under Trump’s administration, contrasting with former President Joe Biden’s strategies. In his remarks at the U.S. Department of Justice, Trump indicated the possibility of a ceasefire akin to his rapport with Putin, and implied Ukraine’s role in the 2022 Russian invasion. Additionally, he noted the suspension of military aid to Ukraine as leverage for negotiations.
Russian air defenses reportedly neutralized four Ukrainian drones targeting Moscow early on Friday, causing minor structural damages but no injuries.
The ongoing discussions between U.S. and Russian leaders highlight the intricate geopolitics surrounding the Ukraine conflict. Both nations appear cautiously optimistic about the possibilities for a ceasefire, although substantive differences remain. The developments underscore the complexity and urgency of diplomatic engagements in pursuit of peace.
