Kushner and Witkoff scheduled to meet with Putin in Moscow

Washington Jared Kushner, President Trumps son-in-law, and U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff are scheduled to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Tuesday, a White House source confirmed. The meeting aims to push forward efforts to end the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The talks follow discussions between U.S. and Ukrainian officials over the weekend in Florida. Witkoff, who has previously met with Putin, has shifted focus toward Ukraine after collaborating with Kushner on brokering a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

After the Florida meetings, President Trump expressed optimism, saying there is a strong possibility of reaching an agreement. Last month, the U.S. supported a peace proposal to end Russia's war in Ukraine, though significant negotiations remain.

Putin described the U.S. proposals as a "set of issues for discussion" rather than a finalized agreement. Trump recently indicated that only a few key points remain unresolved, following comments from a U.S. official and Ukraine's national security adviser, Rustem Umerov, who noted progress on a shared understanding.

The original 28-point plan, backed by the U.S., has been revised after criticism that it favored Russian interests, including a suggestion for Ukraine to cede certain territories to Russia. Trump stated that Russia is making "substantial concessions," including halting fighting and refraining from further territorial claims. European leaders, however, remain skeptical, insisting Russia must return occupied Ukrainian land.

Ukraine has also demanded security guarantees, though Russia has rejected any possibility of Ukraine joining NATO, which would require U.S. and allied protection. Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the Florida talks as "productive" but emphasized the complexity of the negotiations. Rubio stressed the goal is not only to end the war but also to ensure Ukraine's long-term security and prosperity.

Republican Representative Mike Turner of Ohio expressed concern over a potentially pro-Russian tilt in the White House approach, stating that while concerns exist, it is clear that U.S. policy cannot favor Russia, which is considered an adversary.

Despite diplomatic efforts, conflict continues on the ground, with Russian missile attacks on Kyiv over the weekend, highlighting the ongoing challenges to achieving peace.

President Trump has praised Witkoff for his negotiation skills and increasing responsibilities. The White House defended Witkoff's frequent communication with both Russian and Ukrainian officials, emphasizing it aligns with his mission to secure peace, as noted by communications director Steven Cheung.

Author: Sophia Brooks