Trump Envoys Pursue Business Deals in Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks

A new Trump administration peace proposal for Ukraine is facing international scrutiny. The plan reportedly links a ceasefire with major business deals for American companies in Russia. These private negotiations have been led by special envoy Steve Witkoff, a longtime Trump associate.According to The Wall Street Journal, the talks aim to bring Russia’s $2 trillion economy “in from the cold.” This strategy has alarmed European allies and Ukrainian officials. They worry it rewards Moscow for its military aggression.

Miami Meetings and a 28-Point Plan

The framework was discussed at a private meeting in Miami. Witkoff hosted Kirill Dmitriev, head of Russia’s sovereign wealth fund. Jared Kushner also attended the session. Dmitriev is a key architect of the proposed agreement.The 28-point plan involves using frozen Russian central bank assets. These funds would back U.S.-Russian investment projects. Proposed ventures include Arctic mineral mining and energy cooperation. There were even discussions of a joint U.S.-Russia space mission to Mars with SpaceX.

European Backlash and Business Positioning

European leaders have reacted with strong opposition. Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk summarized the concern by stating, “We know this is not about peace. It’s about business.” The plan is seen as sidelining Ukraine’s key demands and traditional diplomatic channels.Meanwhile, American businesses are positioning themselves. Exxon Mobil has met with Russia’s Rosneft about returning to a major gas project. Other Trump donors and associates are exploring investments in Arctic energy. These potential deals depend on the U.S. lifting sanctions on Russian entities.

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The emerging peace plan represents a fundamental shift in post-Cold War foreign policy, prioritizing economic incentives over traditional security guarantees. Its success hinges on convincing wary European allies that this business-first approach can secure a lasting peace.

Info at your fingertips

Who is leading the Trump administration’s peace talks with Russia?

Special envoy Steve Witkoff, a billionaire developer and Trump golfing partner, is the lead negotiator. He has worked closely with Jared Kushner and has held multiple meetings with Vladimir Putin directly.

What is the main criticism of the proposed peace plan?

European and Ukrainian leaders argue the plan mostly reflects Russian talking points. They believe it rewards aggression by offering Moscow major commercial opportunities without sufficient security guarantees for Ukraine.

Which American companies are involved in the potential deals?

Exxon Mobil has discussed returning to a Russian gas project. Other investors are exploring Arctic energy and rare-earth mining ventures. These deals are contingent on sanctions being lifted.

How does the plan propose to fund reconstruction?

The draft plan suggests using roughly $300 billion in frozen Russian central bank assets. These funds would be used for U.S.-Russian investment projects and Ukrainian reconstruction efforts.

Why are European allies concerned?

They fear the strategy will divide Western unity and allow Russia to benefit economically from its invasion. There are also concerns it bypasses established diplomatic and security institutions.