High-Stakes Diplomacy: U.S.-Russia Talks Over Ukraine's Fate

U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff engaged in 'useful and constructive' discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Ukraine's conflict, aiming to avert U.S. sanctions. Signals were exchanged regarding strategic cooperation, while a potential moratorium on air strikes was proposed but fell short of a full ceasefire.

U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff's recent engagement with Russian President Vladimir Putin has been described as 'useful and constructive' amid rising tensions over the Ukraine conflict. This high-stakes diplomacy came just before a deadline set by President Donald Trump, who has signaled impending sanctions unless Russia agrees to peace terms.

During the talks, both parties exchanged key 'signals' concerning the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and discussed possible areas for strategic cooperation. Despite the exchange, detailed outcomes remain under wraps pending Witkoff's report to President Trump. Meanwhile, Russian proposals for halting air strikes have surfaced, though they fall short of demands for a complete ceasefire.

The U.S. side has not yet commented officially. However, this last-ditch diplomatic effort underscores the complex dynamics at play, as the U.S. seeks non-violent resolutions, while Russia's military objectives appear to take precedence over diplomatic relations with Washington.

(With inputs from agencies.)