Putin meets US envoys for Ukraine war talks

Russian President Vladimir Putin initiated talks with US envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff on Saturday, aiming to end the ongoing war in Ukraine. These talks took place in Moscow, the day before the envoys were expected to visit Kyiv. Both Russia and Ukraine declared their commitment not to target each other's capitals for three days during the negotiations.

The US-led discussions to resolve Europe's worst conflict since World War Two faced a setback due to Washington's ongoing conflict with Iran. The US President's son-in-law, Kushner, and business ally, Witkoff, were designated as the negotiators, bringing a proposal to conclude the war. The US President emphasized that they had an idea for peace, though he did not disclose its specifics.

Additionally, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky alleged that Russia was attempting to obstruct the envoys' visit with overnight strikes on Kyiv's two airports and a civilian target, resulting in five deaths. Ukrainian officials confirmed that Witkoff and Kushner would visit Kyiv on Sunday, marking the first time these envoys had traveled to the war-torn city.

The recent escalation of long-range missile and drone attacks between Russia and Ukraine has hindered previous peace efforts. Despite the unusual nature of the envoys' journey, Ukraine proposed a ceasefire during the US negotiators' stay. The US welcomed the Russian finance minister's visit to North Carolina earlier this week, signaling a willingness to engage in diplomatic discourse.