Russia and U.S. Envoys Conclude Talks Without Ukraine Peace Deal

A five-hour meeting in Moscow between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner concluded without a compromise on a Ukraine peace deal, according to Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov. Ushakov described the talks as "very useful and constructive" but noted that "a compromise option was not found," indicating that while some American proposals were deemed acceptable, others were not.

The discussions centered on a U.S.-proposed 28-point peace plan, which has faced criticism for favoring Russian demands, including Ukraine ceding control over certain territories and renouncing aspirations to join NATO. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has rejected such concessions, emphasizing the need to protect Ukraine's territorial integrity.

Ahead of the meeting, Putin warned that while Russia does not seek war with Europe, it is "ready" to respond if provoked. He accused European leaders of obstructing peace efforts by making demands "absolutely unacceptable for Russia."

The U.S. delegation has not publicly commented on the outcome of the talks. Further negotiations are anticipated as both sides continue to seek a resolution to the ongoing conflict.