The American president adopted a measured approach to direct engagement in Ukraine peace negotiations, announcing he will meet Putin and Zelensky only when discussions produce a near-final agreement. Trump simultaneously ordered senior officials to conduct fresh talks in Moscow and Kyiv.
Special Envoy Steve Witkoff received authorization for Moscow discussions with President Putin, while Army Secretary Dan Driscoll shifted focus to Ukrainian officials. The parallel diplomatic missions aim to address remaining disagreements in what administration officials describe as a significantly refined peace framework.
An initial 28-point American proposal generated intense controversy, with Ukrainian and European officials objecting to provisions they viewed as undermining sovereignty. Multiple negotiating rounds have produced revisions, with the framework reportedly condensed to 19 points.
Ukrainian intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov participated in Abu Dhabi meetings, signaling Kyiv’s continued engagement despite reservations. Ukrainian officials have emphasized that resolving territorial questions would require direct discussions between President Zelensky and President Trump.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov indicated Moscow awaits a formal proposal following American consultations with Ukraine and European allies. However, Lavrov cautioned that significant departures from understandings reached during Trump’s earlier meeting with Putin would complicate Kremlin acceptance.
