RKI Network
Moscow – The Kremlin has confirmed that a U.S. delegation, led by Special Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff, will meet Russian officials in Moscow on Thursday. Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesman, stated that discussions are ongoing regarding the results of recent negotiations between the U.S. and Ukraine held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Russia will formulate its position after further bilateral talks.
Peskov mentioned that prior contacts had been made, including a phone conversation between U.S. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Russian presidential aide Yury Ushakov, in which critical information was exchanged.
Witkoff’s arrival in Moscow signals the potential for direct discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, Peskov refrained from speculating on the specific outcomes of the meeting, stressing that Russia would not compromise on vital territorial matters, including Crimea, Sevastopol, and the regions of Kherson, Zaporizhia, Donetsk, and Luhansk. These territories are enshrined in Russia’s constitution, making them non-negotiable.
Regarding reports that Russia had presented demands for a deal on Ukraine to the U.S., Peskov dismissed the media claims, affirming that much of the information circulating was inaccurate.
Ukraine has expressed willingness to consider a 30-day ceasefire proposed by the U.S., but Peskov emphasized that any future agreements must prioritize Russia’s legitimate interests. He reiterated Russia’s stance that sanctions imposed by the U.S. are illegal and should be lifted.
Ushakov confirmed Russia’s long-term aim for a peaceful resolution, one that goes beyond temporary ceasefires, while also acknowledging that all discussions would remain private between the two nations.