President Trump sent top American negotiators to Moscow and Kyiv while maintaining specific criteria for his personal participation in peace talks. Trump stated he would engage Russian and Ukrainian leaders directly only when negotiations approach a final agreement.
The administration’s confidence in recent progress contrasts with persistent skepticism about achieving a settlement both parties will accept. Trump characterized negotiations as productive, pointing to refinements made to a peace framework that has undergone substantial revision.
Steve Witkoff’s mission to Moscow and Dan Driscoll’s engagement with Ukrainian officials reflect the administration’s parallel negotiating approach. White House officials emphasize that remaining disagreements have narrowed significantly over the past week.
Ukrainian President Zelensky maintained a cautious public response, thanking Trump for his efforts while clarifying that no final agreement exists. Ukrainian officials have expressed strong interest in arranging direct Trump-Zelensky meetings for addressing sensitive territorial issues.
European leaders coordinated their positions through a conference call that included Zelensky and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer noted Ukrainian proposals for constructive modifications to the peace framework.