U.S.–Russia Talks in Moscow: No Agreement Reached on Ukrainian Territory Issue

On Tuesday, U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner met Putin in Moscow, with Kremlin advisor Yuri Ushakov present. Ushakov stated, “No agreement has been reached so far. However, the U.S. proposals remain open for discussion.”

Although Ushakov described the talks as “constructive and important,” he stressed that both Washington and Moscow have a long and difficult path ahead.

The U.S. recently revised its initial 28-point peace plan, which Ukraine and Western countries criticized as favoring Russia. In response, Russia rejected proposals from Ukraine and Europe.

Before the meeting, Putin accused European countries of taking sides in the war and said the West imposed conditions that were “completely unacceptable” to Russia. He warned that attacks on Ukrainian ports, ships, and tankers would intensify.

In response, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said Putin’s statements prove he does not want peace. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on a visit to Ireland, emphasized that ensuring sustainable and dignified peace is the top priority. He acknowledged concerns over waning interest from the U.S. and allies, which may embolden Russia.

In Washington, President Trump said, “Our representatives are in Russia trying to resolve the issue. This is not an easy problem; it is a terrible situation,” noting that the war is causing many deaths every month.

Meanwhile, Russia claims to have taken control of the strategic city of Pokrovsk in Donbas, which Ukraine dismisses as propaganda. Putin claims Russian forces from Pokrovsk can advance in any direction. Russia currently controls about 19% of Ukraine’s territory, slightly more than last year.

Previous U.S. draft peace proposals demanded limits on Ukraine’s military, full control of Donbas, and retention of Zaporizhzhia and Kherson by Russia—conditions Kyiv considered tantamount to surrender. Zelensky reiterated that maintaining Ukraine’s territorial integrity remains the biggest challenge in ongoing negotiations.

U.S., Russian, and Ukrainian officials are expected to continue intense diplomatic talks, including meetings in Brussels on Wednesday.