Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed his willingness to engage in peace talks with Ukraine without any preconditions, according to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov. The announcement followed a three-hour meeting in Moscow with Steve Witkoff, the special envoy representing U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration.
Peskov emphasized that Putin had consistently reiterated his openness to negotiations with Kyiv. During the meeting with Witkoff, Putin reportedly reaffirmed Russia’s readiness to begin dialogue without preliminary demands. This development aligns with recent efforts by Washington to advance a potential peace framework.
The talks with Witkoff were described by Russian officials as “constructive and useful.” The American envoy presented elements of a peace proposal that allegedly includes the recognition of Crimea as part of Russia—a point that Ukraine firmly rejects and that historically contradicted official U.S. policy.
President Trump recently stated that Russia and Ukraine were “very close” to finalizing a peace agreement and encouraged both sides to convene for high-level talks. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky rejected the draft plan, stressing that Ukraine would not cede any territory under negotiation.
Despite public declarations of openness, Russian military operations have continued. Recent strikes on Kyiv and other regions of Ukraine have resulted in civilian casualties, casting doubt on the sincerity of Moscow’s intentions.
European leaders have advanced an alternative initiative supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty while suggesting that Kyiv might eventually consider concessions as part of a comprehensive peace package. The proposal reportedly includes strong security guarantees for Ukraine and a gradual lifting of sanctions on Russia.
Meanwhile, the Trump administration is applying pressure on both Moscow and Kyiv to demonstrate tangible progress, warning that a lack of advancement could lead Washington to withdraw its involvement. Ukraine maintains that a complete ceasefire must precede any formal negotiations, while Russia continues to insist on conditions including the demilitarization of Ukraine and recognition of occupied territories.
Although the Kremlin’s latest remarks signal a possible opening for diplomacy, significant gaps remain, and the prospect of a breakthrough in the peace process remains uncertain.
