Trump and Putin Anticipated to Discuss Ceasefire Conditions This Week, Envoy Reports
Steve Witkoff, an envoy for Donald Trump, indicated on Sunday that a conversation between the US president and Vladimir Putin is expected this week. Witkoff mentioned that the Russian leader is open to Trump's ceasefire and peace proposals. He described recent discussions with Putin as "positive" and "solution-oriented."
During an interview with CNN, Witkoff refrained from confirming whether Putin's conditions included the surrender of Ukrainian forces in Kursk, recognition of Russian-claimed Ukrainian territories, restrictions on Ukraine's military mobilization, a stop to Western military support, and a prohibition on foreign peacekeepers.
Putin expressed support for a truce on Thursday but emphasized that several issues need resolution before finalizing an agreement. He showed willingness towards a 30-day ceasefire suggested by the US but provided unclear terms, leaving questions about the Kremlin's intentions.
Witkoff did not elaborate on Russia's demands but stated that US negotiators have managed to reduce the gaps between Ukraine and Russian representatives. He planned to meet with Trump on Sunday to discuss further narrowing these differences.
The talks have involved Ukraine, Russia, and European countries like France, Britain, Norway, and Finland, as well as other components necessary for a ceasefire. Witkoff noted that Trump is kept informed of the discussions and anticipates a call between the US and Russian presidents soon.
The US continues to engage with Ukraine, advising them on the ongoing discussions. Ukraine agreed to a US-proposed 30-day ceasefire during talks in Saudi Arabia last week. Since a challenging meeting at the White House, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been trying to show Kyiv's openness to Trump's plans, while suggesting that Putin is stalling and not genuinely interested in a deal.
Zelenskyy has agreed to delay discussions on territorial issues and security guarantees until after a ceasefire is in place and more detailed talks occur. He previously insisted that a ceasefire would only be meaningful if Western partners provided security assurances to Ukraine.
Trump has clarified that the US is not offering any guarantees, while British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is working to gather Western allies to form a potential peacekeeping force for Ukraine post-agreement. However, the feasibility of such a mission without US support is uncertain, and Russian officials have consistently rejected any deal involving Western military presence in Ukraine.
On Sunday, Zelenskyy reported that Russia had launched over 1,000 drones and more than 1,300 guided bombs on Ukrainian territory in the past week. "This is not the action of someone seeking a swift end to the conflict," Zelenskyy stated on Telegram. Ukraine also initiated a new drone offensive against Russian areas over the weekend.
Witkoff mentioned that US negotiation teams would meet with both Russian and Ukrainian officials this week. "The president expects some form of agreement in the coming weeks, and I believe that's achievable," he remarked.
There are concerns that the Trump administration's proposed settlement might resemble a Russian victory, potentially disadvantaging Ukraine and its European allies. Recent friendly exchanges between Trump and Putin have raised alarms in Kyiv, as the new US administration appears to be warming up to Moscow while using aggressive rhetoric towards Ukraine and reducing military support.
Separately, Trump's national security adviser, Mike Waltz, told ABC's This Week that diplomatic efforts are ongoing. Waltz discussed potential territory exchanges for future security guarantees and described permanent NATO membership for Ukraine as "highly unlikely."
Waltz questioned the feasibility of reclaiming all Ukrainian territories from Russian control, including Crimea. He emphasized the need to balance moral considerations with the realities on the ground, which is being addressed through diplomatic channels and proximity talks.