U.S. Envoy Heads to Moscow as Ukraine War Talks Continue
Moscow, Russia – A high-ranking official from the Kremlin confirmed Wednesday that Steve Witkoff, a special envoy from the United States, is scheduled to visit Moscow next week. This visit comes as efforts increase to find common ground to end the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which has lasted nearly four years.
Yuri Ushakov, an advisor to Russian President Vladimir Putin on foreign affairs, stated that the Kremlin has not yet received a formal peace proposal from the U.S., despite recent discussions between representatives from the United States, Russia, and Ukraine in Abu Dhabi.
“While communication continues, including through phone calls, a comprehensive, point-by-point discussion at a formal meeting has not yet occurred,” Ushakov told Russian media.
While Ukrainian officials have not confirmed whether Dan Driscoll will visit Kyiv in the coming days, as suggested by U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday.
Russia Expresses Caution
Initial versions of the Trump administration’s plan to end the war sparked a flurry of diplomatic activity last week. After talks in Geneva between U.S. and Ukrainian officials, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy indicated the plan could be “workable,” though key issues remain unresolved.
It was reported that Witkoff coached Ushakov on how President Putin should present the Ukraine peace plan to President Trump. Trump defended Witkoff’s actions as “standard” negotiating tactics.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov downplayed the significance of the leaked call, but acknowledged that “many people in various countries, including the United States, will try to disrupt these efforts toward peace.”
Peskov cautioned that it’s “a little too early to say” if a peace agreement is near.
Europe’s Role
European nations, concerned about Russia’s actions and their own interests in Ukraine, are seeking to ensure their voices are heard in the discussions.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized that Europe wants a swift end to the war, but cautioned that any agreement reached without the consent of Ukraine and Europe would not lead to a lasting peace. “Europe is not a plaything, but a sovereign actor for its own interests and values,” Merz stated.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed optimism about recent developments, noting “an opportunity here to make real progress” toward peace. She insisted that any resolution must include future security guarantees for Ukraine, without limiting its armed forces or blocking its path to NATO membership.
EU diplomat Kaja Kallas voiced skepticism about Russia’s commitment to peace talks. “Right now, we see zero indication that Russia is ready for a ceasefire. Russia is not winding down its military machine, but ramping it up,” Kallas said, suggesting additional pressure, such as economic sanctions, is needed to bring Moscow to the negotiating table.
