In a development that highlights ongoing diplomatic tensions around the Ukraine war, Russian President Vladimir Putin made US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner wait for several hours before their scheduled meeting at the Kremlin this week. The envoys, who were in Moscow for talks aimed at easing hostilities and exploring potential ceasefire pathways, spent much of the day waiting as Putin held a televised press conference criticising Europe’s approach to the conflict.
The meeting, which finally began late in the night and continued past midnight, was described by aides from both sides as “productive,” though officials acknowledged that no significant progress was achieved toward ending the nearly four-year-long conflict.
Hours-long delay amid rising tensions
According to diplomatic sources in Moscow, the delay was attributed to Putin’s extended interaction with Russian media, during which he reiterated accusations that European nations were responsible for escalating the conflict by supplying military support to Ukraine.
Kushner and Witkoff, serving as informal diplomatic intermediaries, reportedly remained in Moscow waiting for confirmation of the meeting. They eventually arrived at the Kremlin for talks that stretched into the early hours of the morning.
No shift in Russia’s position
Despite the lengthy session, officials familiar with the discussions said that Putin stood firm on Russia’s terms for peace, repeating long-held positions that any negotiated settlement must reflect Moscow’s security demands and territorial claims.
Russian aides described the meeting as part of an “ongoing dialogue,” signalling openness to continued engagement but emphasising that Russia will not concede core strategic interests.
US sources, speaking off record, noted that the conversation was direct but yielded no breakthrough on urgent issues such as ceasefire conditions, humanitarian corridors or territorial control.
A diplomatic effort with limited expectations
Witkoff and Kushner’s visit comes amid renewed international pressure to restart political negotiations, as winter intensifies fighting across frontline regions. Analysts say the meeting underscores Washington’s willingness to explore multiple diplomatic channels, even when formal US-Russia relations remain strained.
Observers also noted that the extended waiting time, followed by a late-night meeting, reflects Putin’s characteristic diplomatic style, often intended to signal control and strategic patience.
Global implications
The Ukraine conflict continues to reshape global energy markets, defence alliances, and humanitarian conditions across Eastern Europe. The latest Moscow engagement, while symbolically important, offered little indication of movement toward a settlement.
Dialogue likely to continue
While no concrete outcomes emerged, officials on both sides suggested that more discussions are expected in the coming months. For now, the meeting serves as a reminder of the diplomatic complexities surrounding the conflict — and of the deep divide that continues to separate Moscow and Washington on the path to peace.