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Kushner and Witkoff hold talks with Putin before heading to meet Zelensky as Europe seeks a seat at the peace talks
US presidential envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff met Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss a possible settlement of the war in Ukraine and Europe’s future security. They are expected to meet Volodymyr Zelensky in Dublin, as efforts grow to include European representatives in the negotiations.
The Kremlin said Putin would shape Russia’s position after hearing the US proposals, which reportedly include asking Moscow to outline its vision for European security. Finland’s president said a technical meeting involving Ukraine, Russia, the US and Europe is planned in the coming weeks, but Europe’s representative has not been chosen. Zelensky said he was sceptical the US envoys would return with concrete proposals; Kyiv has also raised concern that the talks are shifting away from ending the war. A Russian drone strike on a Kyiv apartment block on November 12 killed one woman and injured seven people.
In short
- US envoys met Putin before expected talks with Zelensky.
- Europe is seeking a role in future negotiations.
- Kyiv fears discussions are drifting from ending the war.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Direct US engagement with Moscow could create a channel to test possible terms for ending the fighting and address the security concerns that would shape any lasting settlement. Including Ukraine and European representatives in follow-up talks could give affected parties a role in shaping proposals and make an agreement more workable.
The case against
Talks led initially by US envoys and Putin risk giving Moscow influence over Europe’s security arrangements without ensuring Ukraine and European states have an equal say. Kyiv’s scepticism reflects concern that discussions could drift from ending the war while Russia continues attacks, and that proposals made without clear Ukrainian consent may not secure a durable peace.
Europe Russia-Ukraine War World