Russia confirmed a “preliminary agreement” for President Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, to visit Moscow next week as the White House accelerates its push for a Ukraine-Russia peace deal.
Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov said Witkoff — and possibly Jared Kushner — will meet Russian President Vladimir Putin, adding that confidential talks are ongoing despite a leaked phone call that appeared to show Witkoff advising Moscow on messaging. Ushakov suggested the leak was an attempt to hinder negotiations.
Correspondent @felschwartz often hears from US and EU officials that Steve Witkoff “has bought into the Russian narrative” about the Ukraine war.
— POLITICO (@politico) November 26, 2025
And the leaked transcript of his call to a top Putin aide lends weight to this argument.
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Trump defended his envoy, calling the leaked comments “standard negotiation.” He also argued that Ukraine should take a deal, noting Russia’s larger manpower.
⚡ More Republican lawmakers are calling on the Trump administration to overhaul its backchannel peace talks with Moscow after leaked transcripts showed envoy Steve Witkoff discussing strategy with a top Putin aide.https://t.co/iJjp5C3Hno
— UNITED24 Media (@United24media) November 26, 2025
U.S., Ukrainian and European officials recently scaled a controversial 28-point proposal down to 19 points during talks in Geneva. U.S. officials say Ukraine has agreed to the core terms, though Kyiv insists sensitive issues remain.
The Kremlin has not signaled approval, with senior officials warning it is “too early” to claim a breakthrough.
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