Putin–Trump envoys Fail to Reach Ukraine Peace Deal After marathon Talks
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Despite five hours of negotiations, Russia and the United States did not achieve a breakthrough in efforts to forge a peace agreement to end the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the kremlin confirmed on Thursday.The talks,held in Moscow,involved Russian President Vladimir Putin and a delegation led by Donald TrumpS top envoys,Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
President Trump has consistently characterized resolving the deadliest European conflict since World War II as a key,yet elusive,objective of his governance. He has, at times, publicly expressed frustration with both Putin and Ukrainian President volodymyr Zelensky regarding the stalled peace process.
Late-Night Discussions Yield No Immediate Compromises
The discussions between Putin and the US delegation extended past midnight, according to reports. Following the meeting, a senior Russian official stated plainly: “Compromises have not yet been found.” Yuri Ushakov, Putin’s top foreign policy aide, elaborated to reporters that “there is still a lot of work to be done.”
Ushakov indicated that Putin expressed reservations regarding certain proposals put forward by the US side. Witkoff afterward traveled to the US embassy in Moscow to deliver a briefing to the White House. While a direct meeting between Putin and Trump remains unscheduled, Ushakov characterized the talks as “constructive” and highlighted “huge opportunities for US-Russian economic cooperation.”
The “Territorial Problem” Remains a Sticking Point
The discussions centered, in part, on what the Kremlin refers to as the “territorial problem” – a diplomatic term for Russia’s claims over the Donbas region of ukraine. Despite Ukraine maintaining control over at least 5,000 square kilometers within the claimed territory, Russia continues to assert sovereignty over the entire area. Almost all nations internationally recognize Donbas as Ukrainian territory.
Ushakov noted that some elements of the American proposals were “more or less acceptable,” but require further discussion. “Some of the formulations that have been proposed to us are not suitable for us, that is – the work will continue,” he added.
US Signals Hope for Progress, Ukraine Expresses Caution
US Secretary of state marco Rubio suggested “some progress” had been made during an interview on Wednesday. He explained that the focus of US efforts is to determine “what could the Ukrainians live with that gives them security guarantees for the future,” and to facilitate a path for Ukraine to “prosper as a contry.”
Though, Ukrainian President Zelensky, speaking during a visit to Dublin, voiced skepticism and concern that the US might lose interest in the peace process. “We don’t trust the words,” Zelensky stated, emphasizing the importance of verifiable action. “But [if] we’re afraid if America will be tired? Of course. It is indeed a goal of Russians – to withdraw interest of America from this situation and this is their [Russia’s] goal.” Zelensky stressed the need for a “fair and open” process, warning against any behind-the-scenes maneuvering.
Escalating Rhetoric and European Energy shift
Prior to the Kremlin meeting, Putin issued a stark warning, stating that Russia does not seek conflict with Europe, but would respond decisively to any aggression. He also threatened to cut off Ukraine’s access to the Black Sea in response to attacks on Russian vessels.
simultaneously occurring, the European Council announced an agreement to phase out Russian gas imports by 2027, marking a significant step towards energy independence. As of October, Russia accounted for 12% of EU gas imports, a substantial decrease from the 45% recorded before the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Hungary, France, and Belgium remain among the countries still reliant on Russian gas supplies.
The lack of immediate progress in moscow underscores the immense challenges facing efforts to de-escalate the conflict in Ukraine, leaving the prospect of a lasting peace uncertain.
