US Diplomats Engage in Moscow Talks on Ukraine Conflict
The ongoing negotiations aimed at resolving the Russian offensive in Ukraine may gain renewed momentum. US negotiators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner have arrived in Moscow and are scheduled to continue their journey to Ukraine on Sunday. A critical condition set by the United States for these discussions is that there must be no Ukrainian attacks on Moscow, while Russia is expected to refrain from strikes against Kyiv in return.
Witkoff and Kushner are tasked with conflict resolution efforts within the administration of US President Donald Trump. In recent months, dialogue has stalled, partly due to US activities related to the conflict in Iran. The US mediators have made several visits to Moscow since 2025, but a trip to Kyiv has yet to occur.
Meetings with Russian Advisors
According to insiders, the US envoys are set to meet today with Kirill Dmitriev, an advisor to President Vladimir Putin. Dmitriev has previously participated in discussions between US representatives and the Russian president. This marks the second high-level visit from the Trump administration to Moscow in a short period; CIA Director John Ratcliffe was in the Russian capital just on August 25.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that Ukraine will ensure the normal operation of Russian airspace during the US negotiators‘ visit, as has been the case in previous diplomatic missions. He emphasized that there would be no airstrikes from the Ukrainian side, and Russia must respond accordingly. Reports indicate that the US government has also insisted on a cessation of attacks, which has delayed negotiations regarding the trip.
Current Attacks and Negotiation Stances
Despite these diplomatic efforts, Russia launched attacks on two airports in Kyiv late Saturday night. President Zelensky stated that these assaults are linked to preparations for the visit of Kushner and Witkoff. The question remains whether these talks will yield any progress. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov declared that President Putin’s position is „unyielding.“ Russia continues to demand that Ukraine abandon its NATO aspirations and fully cede four Ukrainian regions claimed by Moscow, including areas not currently under Russian control.
The developments in the coming days could be pivotal for the future trajectory of the conflict and may influence the potential for a diplomatic resolution.
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