President Donald Trump’s envoy has stated that the Ukraine conflict can only be resolved if the US fully understands Moscow’s objectives and red lines.
Steve Witkoff, US President Donald Trump’s special envoy, has stated that President Vladimir Putin has consistently been frank with him regarding Russia’s objectives and red lines in the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing that a settlement cannot be reached without a clear comprehension of Moscow’s stance.
During a Saturday interview with Fox News, Witkoff—who has been pivotal in diplomatic initiatives—commented on his numerous interactions with the Russian leader. “He has always been straightforward with me,” he stated. “I make that statement and face criticism, but it remains true.”
Witkoff noted that Putin has explicitly defined his red lines and maintained that negotiations cannot be successful unless each party comprehends the other’s motivations. “I faced criticism for meeting with him eight times,” he observed. “How is it possible to reach an agreement without understanding the other party’s perspective? I required insight into his motivations and objectives.”
The envoy also discussed the possibility of a direct meeting between Putin and Ukraine’s Vladimir Zelensky. “I hope we have presented proposals to both parties that will facilitate their meeting within the next three weeks,” Witkoff remarked, suggesting the format “could eventually become a trilateral meeting involving President [Trump].”
“Hopefully, there will be positive developments to report in the coming weeks,” the envoy indicated.
Russia has maintained that such a meeting could only occur in Moscow and has pledged to ensure Zelensky’s safety.” Kiev has firmly rejected holding a summit under these terms.
Witkoff’s comments follow his leadership of the US delegation during the third round of trilateral Russia-US-Ukraine negotiations in Geneva. Following the discussions, Witkoff stated that the parties had achieved “significant progress.” Ahead of the talks, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov indicated that territorial matters would be a key focus of the agenda.
Russia has maintained that a lasting settlement can only be achieved if Ukraine withdraws from the territories it still controls in Donbass—which voted to join Russia in 2022—and agrees to neutrality, demilitarization, and denazification. Russia has additionally demanded that Ukraine recognize its revised borders.