Russian President Vladimir Putin held discussions with U.S. representatives Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner at the Kremlin in an effort to restart peace talks aimed at resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Both sides agreed to temporarily halt strikes on each other’s capitals during the negotiations.
The visit by the American envoys marks a renewed effort to address the ongoing conflict, which has intensified with increased aerial attacks. The U.S. has refocused its attention on the situation in Ukraine after months of prioritizing the Iran conflict. This meeting follows a previous visit by Witkoff and Kushner to Moscow in January earlier this year.
In addition to their discussions in Moscow, the U.S. envoys are scheduled to visit Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, for the first time as part of the peace process. President Putin conveyed his regards to President Trump through Kushner and Witkoff, highlighting the complex situation in Ukraine following Russia’s invasion on February 24, 2022.
Both countries have agreed to a temporary ceasefire, with Putin ordering no strikes on Kyiv for three days, and Zelenskyy reciprocating by refraining from strikes on Moscow until the following Monday. The peace talks come amidst escalating attacks on key locations in Ukraine, including government buildings and military facilities.
As the conflict intensifies, both sides have engaged in strategic strikes, with Russia targeting essential infrastructure in Ukraine, while Ukrainian forces retaliate with long-range attacks. The air war has become a daily reality for residents in Kyiv, as the two nations grapple for control along the front lines.
The recent round of attacks has resulted in casualties and damages on both sides, underscoring the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely as efforts to de-escalate tensions and find a lasting solution to the crisis remain ongoing.