Russian President Vladimir Putin held discussions with U.S. representatives Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner at the Kremlin on Saturday in an effort to reignite efforts to resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Both sides agreed to halt airstrikes on each other’s capitals during the talks.
The U.S. initiative to end the conflict has slowed down due to the focus on the Iran situation in recent months. Witkoff and Kushner’s last visit to Moscow was in January, where they also met with Putin. They are scheduled to visit Kyiv on Sunday for the first time in the peace process.
Putin conveyed his warm wishes and appreciation to former U.S. President Donald Trump through Witkoff and Kushner. He described the situation in Ukraine as complex, following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022.
Presidential spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that Putin ordered a three-day suspension of strikes on Kyiv starting at midnight. Zelenskyy confirmed that Ukraine was ready to refrain from striking Moscow until Monday. The U.S. delegation engaged in talks with Zelenskyy upon their arrival in Moscow.
Amid stalled peace negotiations, Russia has escalated attacks on Kyiv and other cities, taking advantage of Ukraine’s air defense system limitations. Long-range strikes by Ukraine have targeted key Russian facilities to weaken the Kremlin’s military and economy, impacting civilians.
The air conflict between Russia and Ukraine has intensified, with Russia utilizing fast-flying drones. Zelenskyy criticized Russia for strikes on airports in connection with the U.S. visit. Russian attacks resulted in casualties and damage in various regions, prompting responses from both countries.
The situation remains tense as both sides exchange attacks and casualties in the ongoing conflict. Efforts to ease tensions and reach a peaceful resolution continue amidst the escalating violence.