Andrea Innocenti On November 12, the Kremlin opened its doors to two Washington figures in Moscow: Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner . Sent by President Donald Trump , the two diplomats were tasked with reviving peace negotiations with Russia following the trilateral talks held in Abu Dhabi. The decision to summon the emissaries comes amid growing international pressure to find a way to end the conflict that began more than two years ago.
Negotiations in Abu Dhabi: a first step after eight months of silence
The Abu Dhabi summit brought together delegations from Russia, Ukraine, and the United States in an atmosphere that participants described as "tense but constructive." Discussions touched on the security guarantees requested by Moscow, Ukraine's claims to sovereignty, and the need to open humanitarian channels for the population affected by the conflict.
Sources present described moments of intense emotion, with both sides expressing grievances after a nine-month hiatus in negotiations. Despite their differences, the interlocutors concluded that the resumption of dialogue represents a "window of opportunity" to be exploited by 2027.
Symmetrical steps requested by Moscow
During the Abu Dhabi meeting, Russian representatives emphasized the need for "symmetrical steps" from the United States and the European Union, meaning concrete measures that reduce the perceived threat to their security. Among the demands raised was the willingness to include Russian interests in a future European security pact , ensuring that NATO does not move further towards Russia's borders. The United States responded by indicating a possible willingness to negotiate a new security framework, but only within a broader agreement aimed at ending the war in Ukraine.
The United States is pushing for a new European security pact.
According to diplomatic sources, Washington has asked Moscow to present a concrete proposal for a security pact that includes measures to reduce tensions with Europe. The American proposal requires Russia to accept the participation of European representatives in the next rounds of peace talks, a point Moscow has so far resisted. Furthermore, the United States has reiterated that any security agreement must be accepted by both Kiev and European countries, thus preventing Russia from gaining a veto over the continent's security decisions.
Zelensky and the demand for European participation
Meanwhile, from his Dublin address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that "ending this war without Europe's participation would be unfair and, frankly, impossible." Zelensky expressed that the future of the negotiations depends largely on Washington's role, stating: "Much depends on Russia, but even more so on the United States." The Kiev leader also emphasized the importance of obtaining concrete answers regarding the humanitarian situation of his people, expressing his hope that American emissaries would return from Moscow with "specific details" on possible steps toward peace.
What to expect from the Moscow meeting
Expectations are high regarding what Putin will offer during the meeting. Kiev hopes for clear indications on how Russia intends to proceed toward a security agreement, while the United States aims to ensure the presence of European representatives at upcoming talks. The statement by Yuri Ushakov, Kremlin foreign policy adviser, that the discussions will proceed "business as usual" suggests that the parties will seek to maintain a tone of continuity, but without concealing their profound differences. Should the negotiations progress, the outcome will influence not only the end of the conflict, but also the shape of European security for decades to come.