MOSCOW: Russian President Vladimir Putin has thanked US President Donald Trump for helping facilitate negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, expressing hope that the conflict could eventually end with what he described as “eternal peace” in Ukraine.
Putin made the remarks during a meeting with US special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner at the Kremlin in Moscow on Thursday, November 12.
He asked the American representatives to convey his gratitude to Trump for facilitating contacts between Moscow and Kyiv.
Russia Open to Talks with Europe
- Putin said Russia had never opposed dialogue with European countries and expressed willingness to engage in discussions with European leaders.
- He urged the United States to work with its European allies to establish a common understanding of what they want for Ukraine, saying the choice should be between peace and war.
- US envoy Steve Witkoff subsequently said European representatives would participate in the next round of negotiations, describing their inclusion as an important development.
Disagreement Over Foreign Troops in Ukraine
- Despite expressing support for dialogue, Putin reiterated Russia’s opposition to the deployment of foreign military forces in Ukraine, warning that such troops would be considered legitimate targets by Russian forces.
- He also maintained Moscow’s position on territorial issues, saying Russia recognised only the state border as the line of demarcation. Territorial disagreements remain one of the biggest obstacles to a peace agreement.
Recent Peace Negotiations in Abu Dhabi
- Putin’s meeting with the US envoys followed two days of trilateral discussions involving Russia, Ukraine and the United States in Abu Dhabi on November 10 and 11.
- The discussions reportedly resulted in progress on humanitarian matters, including an agreement on a major prisoner of war exchange expected in the coming weeks. However, significant disagreements over territory and security arrangements remain unresolved.
Ukraine’s Position and Next Steps
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed concerns about discussions concerning Europe’s future security arrangements without sufficient Ukrainian involvement.
- US representatives were also expected to meet Zelenskyy in Dublin following their Moscow visit to discuss the next steps in the diplomatic process.
- The proposed inclusion of European representatives in future negotiations could broaden diplomatic engagement, although a final peace agreement remains uncertain.
Key Highlights
- Putin thanked Donald Trump for facilitating Russia–Ukraine contacts.
- Putin expressed his desire for “eternal peace” in Ukraine.
- Russia signalled openness to renewed dialogue with European countries.
- US envoy Steve Witkoff said European representatives would join the next round of talks.
- Putin opposed the deployment of foreign troops in Ukraine.
- Recent Abu Dhabi negotiations made progress on a proposed prisoner exchange, but territorial disputes remain unresolved.
Conclusion
- Putin’s latest remarks indicate a willingness to continue diplomatic engagement with the United States and Europe. However, major disagreements over territorial claims and Ukraine’s future security arrangements continue to complicate efforts to end the war.
Editorial Note: Statements by Russian officials reflect Moscow’s position and should not be interpreted as confirmation that a peace agreement has been reached.
