High-stakes US-Russia talks on ending the war in Ukraine ended Tuesday without a breakthrough, with the Kremlin saying no compromise has been reached on territorial issues.
Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Jared Kushner, President Trump’s son-in-law, and special envoy Steve Witkoff at the Kremlin. The meeting focused on a revised US peace plan aimed at ending the nearly four-year conflict.
“Some proposed formulations do not fit us, and work will continue,” said Yuri Ushakov, a top Russian presidential aide, adding that no compromise has been found so far. Putin’s team emphasized that Moscow will not accept European forces monitoring a truce or concessions on territory it claims.
US officials acknowledged the talks were challenging. President Trump described the situation as “not easy” during a White House cabinet meeting, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio said progress has been made, though key issues remain unresolved.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stressed that any peace plan must end the war completely. He said, “There will be no simple solutions,” and highlighted that nothing should be decided without Ukraine. The most difficult issues involve territories, frozen Russian assets, and security guarantees.
Kushner and Witkoff presented a revised US plan that addressed Kyiv’s and European concerns. According to Ushakov, some points were agreeable, but Russia’s stance remained critical. Putin continues to demand that Ukraine surrender territories Moscow claims and maintains a firm position that there is no compromise on these demands.
Meanwhile, Russian forces have intensified attacks in eastern Ukraine, with drone and missile strikes causing widespread power outages and heating shortages. Zelensky accused the Kremlin of attempting to weaken Ukraine before potential negotiations.
The talks were described as “useful,” though they underscored the deep divide between US and Russian positions. Europe remains concerned that a US-Russia deal could pressure Ukraine into unfair concessions.
As the conflict continues, diplomats emphasize that any successful peace agreement will require careful negotiation and respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty.
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