Kremlin says Ukraine talks with US envoys useful but no breakthrough seen

Russian President Vladimir Putin engaged in extensive talks with two American envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, on Saturday to discuss a potential resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. However, Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov provided no insight into any breakthrough or agreement reached during the three-hour discussion.

Witkoff and Kushner shared ideas about possible avenues for a settlement, but the specifics of these suggestions were not disclosed. Putin assured the envoys that Russia has made "real progress" on the battlefield and remains confident of achieving its objectives. He also emphasized the importance of addressing the underlying causes of the conflict.

The White House confirmed that the talks were substantive and indicated that further steps would be announced in the coming weeks. Neither Witkoff nor Kushner, who visited Moscow for the first time since January on behalf of former President Donald Trump, provided any comments following the meeting. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is scheduled to meet Kushner in Kyiv on Sunday.

Ushakov emphasized that the negotiations encompassed not only the resolution of the Ukrainian crisis but also economic discussions and potential mutually beneficial Russian-American projects. Russian investment envoy Kirill Dmitriev praised the meeting as an "important peacemaking visit" and highlighted Putin's support for Trump's efforts to end the war.

The talks come amid Russia's intensive military campaign against Ukraine, with both sides intensifying long-range air strikes and the front lines remaining largely stagnant. Putin has repeatedly stated Russia's goals and stressed the necessity of addressing the conflict's root causes. The two nations remain far apart on how to end the war, with Russia reportedly still intent on capturing more territory before any agreement can be reached.