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So far, US delegates have failed to achieve any tangible progress.
On Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks with US envoys — special representative Steve Witkoff and President Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner. Following the meeting, Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said the only path to a long-term peace agreement lies in resolving territorial issues under the so-called “Anchorage formula,” which предусматриes the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from Donetsk region.
At the same time, Ushakov repeated Moscow’s claim that Russia is allegedly “sincerely interested” in a diplomatic settlement of the war in Ukraine.
“Until that happens, Russia will continue to consistently pursue the objectives set for the ‘special military operation’ on the battlefield, where the Russian armed forces hold the strategic initiative,” Ushakov said.
Meanwhile, Head of Ukraine’s Presidential Office Kyrylo Budanov said there has been noticeable progress in the negotiating process, but it is still too early to speak of a quick peace. Former Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba also said Ukraine could realistically expect a ceasefire in 2026, but not the end of the war. He predicted that the next “windows” for negotiations could open in late February, in the summer, and toward the end of next winter.
