Peace Talks in Moscow: Putin to Meet Trump’s Special Envoys Today

International Desk, PNN

Russian President Vladimir Putin is scheduled to meet Donald Trump’s special envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, in Moscow today to discuss the latest US peace proposal for ending the Ukraine war. The meeting has intensified diplomatic activity globally.

The White House expressed optimism about a possible agreement. Ukraine, however, remains cautious, noting that previous proposals reflected Russian demands.

Last week, a 28-point draft peace plan was released, which faced criticism for requiring Ukraine to cede significant territory, limit its military, and abandon NATO ambitions. Analysts described it as a list of Russia’s “wishful demands.”

Subsequently, revisions were made following objections from Ukraine and European allies. Joint US-Ukraine discussions on Sunday and Monday led to further changes, but the final version has not been published.

Putin stated that Moscow could consider the recent US proposal as a discussion basis but warned that Russian forces would continue offensive operations if Ukraine does not comply. Ukraine asserts that such a deal would endanger the country.

On Monday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and officials from the US and Europe discussed the revised plan in Paris. Zelensky said the new version is “better than before,” but territorial control remains the most complex issue. French President Emmanuel Macron described the ongoing diplomacy as “a possible turning point,” though the final decision rests with Ukraine.

Currently, Russia controls nearly 19% of Ukraine’s territory, an increase of 1% over two years. Strategic city Pokrovsk is claimed by Russia, though Ukraine controls its northern parts, with counterattacks ongoing in the south. Since the start of the war, over 1.2 million people have been killed or injured, according to the US, though both nations have not released precise figures.