US and Russia Hold Marathon Ukraine Talks, Kremlin Reports “Constructive” Dialogue

Top Russian and American officials held lengthy negotiations in Moscow. The talks focused on the ongoing war in Ukraine. Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov described the discussions as constructive. However, he stated no compromise was found on key territorial issues.

The meeting involved U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. They met with Russian President Vladimir Putin and his aides for over five hours. According to Reuters, the dialogue extended past midnight. This high-level contact signals a continued diplomatic effort despite deep divisions.

Details of the High-Stakes Negotiations Emerge

Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov provided details after the marathon session. He called the conversation “very useful and constructive.” He also noted a lot of work remains for both Washington and Moscow. The initial U.S. proposals were broken into four parts for discussion.

Ushakov admitted some points found agreement. He said certain American solutions could be discussed further. Yet, on the critical question of occupied Ukrainian territories, positions diverged. “So far we haven’t found a compromise,” Ushakov told AFP. He assured that positions did not move farther apart.

Putin’s Stark Warning Overshadows Diplomatic Push

The talks occurred against a backdrop of heightened rhetoric. President Vladimir Putin issued a sharp warning to Europe. He accused Kyiv’s European allies of sabotating peace efforts. Putin claimed they lack a peace agenda and side with war.

His statement carried a direct military threat. “If Europe suddenly wants to wage a war with us and starts it, we are ready right away,” Putin said. This warning underscores the persistent risk of wider conflict. It contrasts with the reported constructive tone of the closed-door talks.

The latest round of US-Russia talks ended with a mixed message of open dialogue but unresolved deadlock. The Kremlin’s assessment confirms the immense challenge of bridging the gap on Ukraine’s future borders, even as communication channels remain active.

Thought you’d like to know

How long did the US-Russia meeting last?

The negotiations were a marathon session. Officials met for over five hours, continuing past midnight in Moscow. This indicates the complexity and depth of the discussions.

Who attended the talks from the US side?

The American delegation included Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. They met directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin and his senior diplomatic aides.

What was the main point of disagreement?

The central unresolved issue was the status of occupied Ukrainian territories. The Kremlin stated clearly that no compromise was reached on this critical question.

Did Putin comment on the talks?

Putin did not comment directly on the meeting’s details. However, he separately accused European allies of Ukraine of sabotaging peace efforts and issued a stark warning about readiness for war.

Are more talks planned?

The Kremlin aide suggested much work lies ahead. While no specific next meeting was announced, the characterization of talks as “constructive” leaves the door open for future diplomatic engagement.