Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to confer with U.S. diplomatic envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner on Thursday in Moscow to discuss a possible peace resolution for the conflict in Ukraine. This development follows remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump, who stated that an agreement to end the war is "reasonably close."
The United States has been engaged in separate dialogues with Russia, Ukraine’s government, and European leaders, exploring different versions of peace plans aimed at resolving the conflict in Ukraine. However, none of these talks have culminated in a formal agreement, despite repeated assurances from President Trump about the imminence of a deal.
During a session of the Russian Security Council on Wednesday evening, President Putin announced he would meet with Trump’s special envoy Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law Kushner. The agenda includes continuing discussions on the settlement for Ukraine and considering Trump’s concept referred to as the "Board of Peace."
The stakes surrounding these discussions are high, as they concern the resolution of Europe's deadliest conflict since the Second World War, the future sovereignty and stability of Ukraine, and the degree to which European powers might be marginalized in negotiations. Additionally, there is uncertainty about the longevity and enforceability of any peace arrangement facilitated by the United States.
President Trump commented on the situation, expressing confidence that negotiators are approaching consensus. He emphasized the necessity for a deal, asserting that failure to reach one would be imprudent.