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In a high-stakes diplomatic meeting, former President Donald Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, along with Jared Kushner, met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to address the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. The meeting, which was marked by a series of cordial greetings, featured delays as Putin kept the envoys waiting before discussions commenced.
While Witkoff and Kushner sought to negotiate a path forward to end the conflict, Putin reinforced his stance on several contentious issues. He expressed a readiness for war with Europe if he felt provoked, underscoring the tension that pervades international relations at this juncture. Major points of contention included Russia’s demands for territorial gains, suggestions to impose limits on the Ukrainian military, and Putin’s unwavering belief in achieving victory, whether through negotiation or by force.
Sources close to the meeting reported that the Russian leader showcased a firm position, which hints at a prolonged conflict. The considerable gaps between Russia’s and Ukraine’s negotiating positions pose significant challenges to any potential discussions. Witkoff and Kushner aimed to bridge some of these divides, but the outlook remains uncertain, with experts wary about the likelihood of a diplomatic resolution.
The meeting indicates the complexities surrounding the Ukraine war and raises questions about how external actors can facilitate peace. As the international community watches closely, the need for robust dialogue remains paramount, yet the prospect of significant progress appears bleak amidst Russia’s assertive posture.
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