Witkoff Meets Putin in Moscow as Trump Pushes for Ukraine Peace Deal

MOSCOW, Russia - 26 April 2025

​On 25 April 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump's special envoy, Steve Witkoff, met with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin for a three-hour discussion aimed at advancing peace negotiations to end the ongoing war in Ukraine. This meeting marked the fourth such encounter between the two since January, underscoring the Trump administration's intensified diplomatic efforts.​

The Kremlin described the talks as "constructive and very useful," with foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov noting that the discussions helped bring U.S. and Russian positions closer together on Ukraine and other international issues. A key focus was the potential resumption of direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, which have been stalled since the early weeks of the war that began in February 2022. ​ ​

The U.S. peace plan reportedly includes recognizing Crimea as part of Russia and accepting Russian control over regions occupied since the 2022 invasion. These proposals have faced strong opposition from Ukrainian officials and European leaders. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reiterated Ukraine's stance, emphasising that any concessions on territorial integrity are unacceptable.

Critics argue that the Trump administration's approach risks legitimizing aggression for strategic gains. Trump has warned both sides that the U.S. will abandon its efforts unless there is genuine progress, stating, "I won't be happy, let me put it that way. Things will happen." 

The meeting occurred just hours after a car bomb killed Lt. Gen. Yaroslav Moskalik, a senior Russian military official, near Moscow. Russia has blamed Ukraine for the attack, further escalating tensions. Despite this, the Kremlin maintained that the talks with Witkoff were productive. ​

Additionally, recent Russian missile and drone attacks on Kyiv have resulted in civilian casualties, prompting President Trump to criticize the timing of such attacks during peace negotiations. He posted a message to Putin on social media stating, "Vladimir, STOP!" ​

Steve Witkoff, a New York real estate developer and longtime friend of President Trump, has emerged as a key figure in the administration's diplomatic efforts. Despite lacking formal diplomatic experience, Witkoff has been involved in negotiations concerning Ukraine, Iran, and the Middle East. His approach has drawn criticism, with some accusing him of echoing Kremlin narratives. In a recent interview, Witkoff described Putin as a "great guy" and "super smart," comments that have raised concerns among U.S. officials and allies. ​

While the latest meeting between Witkoff and Putin suggests a narrowing of differences, significant obstacles remain. Ukraine's firm stance on territorial integrity and the recent escalation in violence underscore the complexities of achieving a lasting peace.

Image: The Kremlin

Licence.