Putin–Trump Envoys Hold “Constructive” Five-Hour Kremlin Talks but Territorial Rift Persists

Hours-long negotiations in Moscow between Russian officials and US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner were held behind closed doors, but Kremlin adviser Yuri Ushakov said the five-hour meeting was “useful and constructive.” Still, he acknowledged that the two sides remain far apart on the core territorial issues at the heart of the nearly four-year war, signalling that meaningful progress will require far more work in both capitals.

Talks positive but still far from resolution

Ushakov said the discussions focused on the structure of the US peace framework rather than final wording. He noted that the meeting did not move the sides farther from a solution, but emphasized that “a lot of work remains to be done” and that follow-up contacts would continue.

Kremlin: No compromise yet on territory

The Russian adviser underlined that the Kremlin sees territorial agreements as essential to ending the conflict. “Some American proposals are more or less acceptable, but others are not,” he said, confirming that no compromise has yet been reached.

Other disagreements remain undisclosed

Ushakov added that several points drew criticism from President Vladimir Putin. “There were items we could agree on, and others that provoked a negative response,” he said, without giving further details.

European leaders accused of obstructing the process

Putin, speaking earlier, accused European governments of undermining US-led peace efforts. He claimed Europeans were inserting “absolutely unacceptable” demands into proposals and lacked a genuine peace agenda — comments widely seen as an attempt to drive a wedge between Washington and its allies.

Trump’s peace plan at the center of talks

The Trump administration’s proposal — whose early versions heavily favored Moscow — has been revised multiple times. Ushakov confirmed that “several iterations” are now on the table but did not disclose specifics.

Zelensky awaits signals from Washington and Moscow

While Moscow and Washington held talks, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he was expecting fast updates from the US delegation. Speaking in Dublin, he stressed that Ukraine needs “results, not just dialogue,” and reiterated his readiness to meet Trump depending on the outcome of the talks.

Europe seeks a role as diplomatic pressure mounts

European governments, largely sidelined from early versions of the peace proposal, are pushing to ensure their security concerns are reflected. Meanwhile, Zelensky continues diplomatic tours through Europe as his country faces military pressure, financial strain and political challenges at home.