Amidst tense diplomatic activity surrounding peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, there has been a pause in the plans of representatives of Donald Trump's administration. Despite Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff having visited Moscow multiple times, their visit to Kyiv is not currently planned. This is reported by RBC-Ukraine citing data from The New York Times.
No "photo op" visits
According to an anonymous official who wished to remain in the shadows, diplomats are continuing their work through daily phone calls with representatives of both sides of the conflict. Additionally, personal meetings have already taken place, which were not reported in open sources. However, the source of the publication emphasizes: trips to Russia and Ukraine will only take place if there are new grounds for discussion. "There will be no visit for a photo op," the publication's interlocutor summarizes.
Expectations in Moscow and disappointment
In the Russian capital, there is continued expectation for the resumption of cooperation with Witkoff and Kushner. Former diplomat Thomas Greninger, head of a Swiss analytical center, claims that "Russians are desperately waiting for the return" of these figures. Of particular importance to Vladimir Putin is Steve Witkoff, who is viewed as an instrument for achieving strategic goals, specifically keeping Ukraine out of NATO.
Nevertheless, Russian officials express disappointment with the uneven nature of the visits and the lack of further concrete actions. According to Thomas Graham, a former American diplomat from the George W. Bush administration, such a process requires intensive diplomatic efforts, and the US is the only country capable of leading it, if it is ready to do so.
Ukrainian context and parallel negotiations
In Kyiv, the situation looks different. NSDC Secretary Rustem Umerov and Jared Kushner held talks a few days ago. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that he is still waiting for a visit from US special envoys to Ukraine. For now, the focus is shifting to other directions: Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner plan to meet in Switzerland with Iranian officials, where they will raise the issue of Tehran's nuclear program.
