Diplomatic Discussions on Ukraine Conclude Without Immediate Breakthrough
High-level talks between the United States and Russia regarding the conflict in Ukraine took place, with no immediate compromise reported. Ukrainian officials reacted to the outcome, while both sides signaled readiness for further diplomatic engagement.
US-Russia Negotiations
On Tuesday, US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner met with Russian President Vladimir Putin for approximately five hours at the Kremlin. The White House subsequently described the meeting as "thorough and productive." However, Yuri Ushakov, Putin's senior policy adviser, stated that "no compromise" had been found on ending the war. Ushakov noted that while some US proposals were deemed "more or less acceptable" and required further discussion, others were openly criticized by Russia's leader.
Key points of contention between Moscow and Kyiv reportedly include the future status of Ukrainian territories currently under Russian control and security guarantees for Ukraine. Ukraine and its European partners advocate for Ukraine's membership in NATO as a deterrent against future aggression. This proposal is strongly opposed by Russia, and former President Donald Trump has also indicated opposition to Ukraine joining the alliance. The Kremlin confirmed that Ukraine's potential NATO membership was a "key question" during the Moscow talks.
Russian Stance and Battlefield Context
Ushakov suggested that Russia's negotiating position had been strengthened by recent military developments. Prior to the US visit, President Putin was filmed receiving briefings from commanders who claimed advances in eastern Ukraine, including the strategic city of Pokrovsk, despite ongoing fighting. Data from the US-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW) indicates that Russian forces acquired approximately 701 square kilometers (270 square miles) of Ukrainian territory in November, now controlling 19.3% of the country.
The Kremlin expressed Putin's willingness for continued meetings with US representatives. Concurrently, Putin accused European nations of hindering the peace process, sabotaging relations with the US, and presenting unacceptable demands to Moscow. He stated at a forum in Moscow that while he did not seek conflict with Europe, he was "ready for war."
Ukrainian Reaction and European Outlook
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha criticized Russia, asserting that it was "wasting the world's time" and called for consequences if the conflict is not resolved. Despite this, Sybiha also relayed that the US delegation characterized the talks as having "positive significance for the peace process" and extended an invitation for Ukrainian officials to participate in future discussions in the US.
In a related development, European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen announced an agreement to cease Russian gas imports to the EU by 2027, highlighting a widening divergence between Moscow and European states.