Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner held talks with Vladimir Putin as Russia and Ukraine observed a mutual pause on strikes against each other's capitals.
Published
U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner met with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin on Friday, reviving diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine. The meeting took place amid intensified aerial attacks by both Russia and Ukraine.
Ahead of the talks, Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky agreed to a mutual pause on strikes targeting each other's capitals for the duration of the negotiations. Footage showed Putin greeting the American envoys before the discussions began.
Putin described the current situation in Ukraine as "difficult" and "not so easy," per multiple reports. He also stated that U.S.-Russia contacts on the matter were beneficial, reflecting Moscow's willingness to engage with the diplomatic initiative.
The talks represent the latest high-profile U.S. effort to broker an end to the conflict, which has persisted for over two years. The temporary ceasefire on capital-city strikes signals a modest de-escalation, though broader questions about territory, security guarantees, and political resolution remain unresolved.
Diplomatic observers will watch whether the pause holds beyond the talks and whether the envoys can secure any concrete commitments toward a lasting ceasefire or peace framework.
Sources: 1. Globe and Mail: Putin meets with US envoys at the Kremlin in new Ukraine peace talks — https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/video-putin-meets-with-us-envoys-at-the-kremlin-in-new-ukraine-peace-talks/ (src1) 2.