Moscow – A critical meeting is underway at the Kremlin between US envoy Steve Witkoff and Russian President Vladimir Putin, as reported by Russian media. Witkoff’s arrival in Moscow on Wednesday coincides with the impending deadline set by Donald Trump for Russia to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine., reports 24brussels.
Envoy Steve Witkoff’s visit marks a last-ditch effort to facilitate a breakthrough in the ongoing Ukraine conflict. He arrived just two days before Trump’s stipulated deadline for Russia to either accept a peace agreement or face heightened sanctions. During his visit, he met Kirill Dmitriev, head of Russia’s sovereign wealth fund, as noted by Reuters.
What is Trump’s deadline for a Russian ceasefire?
The deadline mandates Russia to halt military operations in Ukraine by Friday or confront further sanctions. Trump indicated that if Russia does not act to terminate what he terms the “horrible war” against Kyiv, it may face significant or secondary sanctions targeting its trade partners. The White House has conveyed that outcomes from this meeting will inform any potential tougher sanctions.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has cautioned that Russia’s aggression may not wane even if its financial resources diminish. He has, however, expressed optimism towards more rigorous US sanctions and tariffs aimed at nations importing Russian oil.
What progress have past peace talks achieved so far?
Witkoff’s current trip is his fifth to Moscow this year, reinforcing his role as President Trump’s special envoy in ongoing peace negotiations regarding the Ukraine conflict. His previous discussions with Putin included a meeting in April 2025 focused on resuming direct peace talks between Ukraine and Russia.
Why did the Istanbul negotiations fail to end the war?
Recent peace talks held in Istanbul yielded no substantial progress towards ending the war. Although some agreements were reached, including the exchange of 1,000 prisoners of war and the return of deceased soldiers, humanitarian negotiations aimed at achieving a ceasefire or settlement have stalled.
What are the key obstacles to a ceasefire deal?
Experts indicate significant divergences in the positions of both sides. Ukraine demands a complete and unconditional ceasefire as a prerequisite for any further discussions, while Russia seeks limited, short-term pauses, insisting on predetermined terms before any ceasefire or disarmament can be considered.
