US Envoys in Moscow Ahead of Ukraine Talks

US President Donald Trump's top negotiators, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, are currently in Moscow to engage in talks with senior Russian officials regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The envoys were seen arriving at the Kremlin, where they are expected to meet with President Vladimir Putin. Following their discussions in Moscow, they plan to travel to Kyiv for additional negotiations.

Trump stated that Witkoff and Kushner are "bringing with them a proposal to end the war." This visit comes amid previous unsuccessful attempts by the US and its allies to broker a peace deal. Both Russia and Ukraine have agreed to pause strikes on each other's capital cities for three days during the delegation's visit.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that he had spoken with the US envoys, who have already begun discussions with the Russian side. He noted that Ukraine is prepared to refrain from strikes on Moscow, expecting a reciprocal action from Russia regarding Kyiv.

Russian state media reported that President Putin has ordered a halt to strikes on Kyiv for the duration of the US visit. Witkoff and Kushner's arrival in Moscow follows a recent visit by CIA Director John Ratcliffe, although details of that meeting remain undisclosed.

The ongoing conflict has seen significant military actions, including recent strikes by Russia on Ukrainian airports, which Zelensky described as a reaction to the US delegation's planned visit. He emphasized the importance of ensuring safety in airspace during the envoys' discussions.

This visit marks a significant moment in the diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict, with both sides expressing a willingness to engage in dialogue. However, key disagreements on territory and security guarantees remain unresolved, complicating the path to a lasting peace.