U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner met with Russian President Vladimir Poutine in Moscow, seeking to include European nations in negotiations to end the Ukraine war. The meeting followed talks between Russia and Ukraine in Abu Dhabi and is part of broader U.S. efforts to push for a European-led security framework. Poutine remained firm on his demands, rejecting calls for a demilitarized zone or foreign troops in Ukraine.
The U.S. envoys urged Poutine to consider a multilateral approach involving European countries, emphasizing the need for a unified European stance on Ukraine. Poutine, however, remained resolute, rejecting the idea of a 'gray zone' or demilitarized area near the front line. He also opposed the deployment of foreign troops, a move he described as 'absolutely unacceptable'.
The talks come as Ukraine prepares for a summit with Zelensky in Dublin, where European leaders are expected to discuss a coordinated response to the conflict. French President Emmanuel Macron called for a clear and unified European vision for Ukraine, highlighting the importance of diplomatic efforts to achieve a ceasefire. The outcome of the Moscow meeting will influence the next steps in the negotiations.
Poutine's refusal to budge on his demands highlights the deepening divide between Russian and Western approaches to the conflict. The U.S. envoys' push for European involvement faces significant resistance, as Moscow continues to prioritize its own terms for a resolution to the war.