Moscow, Dec 03 (V7N) – U.S President Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, along with his son-in-law and adviser Jared Kushner, arrived in Russia to discuss the potential end of the Ukraine war. However, despite their scheduled meeting at 6:00 PM local time, Russian President Vladimir Putin did not attend the discussions, according to reports by the BBC.
 
Earlier on December 2, while speaking at an investment forum in another part of Moscow, President Putin addressed issues related to inflation and the Russian banking sector. During the question-and-answer session, he issued stern warnings to European nations regarding their involvement in the Ukraine conflict.
 
When asked about Europe’s role in the Ukraine war, Putin claimed that European nations had distanced themselves from the European solution process. He accused them of obstructing US-led initiatives rather than pursuing a peaceful agenda. Addressing Europe directly, he said that the conditions Europe proposed for ending the war were “unacceptable” to Russia. Putin emphasized that while Russia did not seek conflict with Europe, it was prepared if Europe chose confrontation.
 
Observers note that these statements send a clear and firm message to Europe ahead of the planned US-Russia negotiations. The potential Trump-Witkoff discussions in Moscow are now uncertain, amid escalating tensions.
 
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, speaking from Dublin, stressed the opportunity for peace and called for direct communication with both Russia and the United States. “The opportunity to end the war is better than ever before. After meetings with Putin, we expect a direct message from the United States,” he said. Zelensky reiterated his readiness to meet with Trump, contingent on the success of the Moscow talks.
 
The situation highlights the complex diplomatic dynamics between Russia, Europe, Ukraine, and the United States, as global powers seek a resolution to the ongoing conflict.
 
Sources: The Guardian, Al Jazeera, BBC
 
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