Russian President Vladimir Putin held discussions with U.S. representatives Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner at the Kremlin in an attempt to reinvigorate efforts to resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Both sides agreed to temporarily halt aerial attacks on each other’s capitals during the talks.
The U.S. initiative to bring an end to the hostilities has lost momentum due to the focus on the Iran conflict over the past six months. The last meeting between Witkoff, Kushner, and Putin took place in January. The envoys are also scheduled to visit Kyiv for the first time as part of the peace process.
At the meeting, Putin conveyed his regards and appreciation to former U.S. President Donald Trump through Kushner and Witkoff. He described the situation in Ukraine as complex, especially following Russia’s full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022.
To facilitate diplomatic efforts, Putin ordered a three-day ceasefire on strikes against Kyiv starting at midnight. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy reciprocated by agreeing to refrain from strikes on Moscow until Monday. The U.S. delegation was welcomed in Moscow by Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev, emphasizing a peaceful approach.
As peace talks stall, Russia has intensified its attacks on Kyiv and other cities, exploiting Ukraine’s limited air defense capabilities. Recent strikes have targeted significant government buildings and military installations, while Ukraine has retaliated by hitting Russian assets and economic infrastructure.
The escalating air war has become a daily struggle for control along the front line, with drone attacks and air-raid sirens disrupting civilian life. Zelenskyy linked recent Russian strikes on airports to the U.S. delegation’s visit, highlighting the complex dynamics at play.
Tragically, Russian attacks have resulted in casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure in Ukraine. The conflict continues to escalate, with both sides engaging in military actions that have severe humanitarian consequences. Efforts to de-escalate the situation and resume peace talks remain a top priority amid the ongoing violence.