The United States and Russia have opened a new diplomatic push aimed at finding a path toward ending the war in Ukraine.
US special representatives Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner arrived in Moscow on Saturday, September 5, where they are scheduled to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The talks come as Washington attempts to advance a new peace proposal designed to bring an end to the conflict, which has entered its fifth year.
Putin said the continued contacts between Moscow and Washington were beneficial and expressed Russia’s willingness to work with the American delegation.
The discussions are taking place against the backdrop of continued disagreements between Russia and Ukraine over territory and security arrangements. Russia has maintained demands involving the Donetsk region and Ukraine’s NATO ambitions, positions Kyiv has rejected.
Ahead of the diplomatic meetings, Russia and Ukraine agreed to temporary pauses in military activity intended to create a safer environment for the negotiations.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has also called for a temporary halt to air attacks while the diplomatic mission takes place.
Despite the talks, fighting and military activity continue, meaning there is no guarantee that the latest diplomatic effort will produce a peace agreement.
The US delegation is expected to travel to Kyiv after the Moscow meetings as Washington attempts to engage both sides directly.
The latest initiative represents one of the most significant diplomatic efforts in months and could become an important moment in determining whether the long-running conflict can move toward a negotiated settlement.
