Post by : Rameen Ariff

In October 2025, Steve Witkoff, the US presidential envoy, engaged in a significant phone conversation with Yuri Ushakov, an aide to Russian President Vladimir Putin. The discussion revolved around strategies for Putin to approach then-US President Donald Trump regarding a potential peace agreement concerning the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

This interaction occurred on October 14, shortly before an anticipated visit by Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky to the White House. Witkoff advised Ushakov that it would be beneficial for Putin to speak with Trump before Zelensky’s arrival. He urged Ushakov to suggest that Putin commend Trump for his recent success in achieving a peace agreement in Gaza, illustrating Russia's support for that initiative. Witkoff believes this could pave the way for discussions surrounding a similar peace plan for Ukraine.

Witkoff clarified that the US had formulated a 20-point peace plan and proposed that Russia could outline a comparable proposal to Trump. He argued that this could advance peace negotiations. Ushakov seemed receptive to this counsel, noting that Putin would laud Trump as a “real peace man” and would entertain further discussions.

Just two days later, on October 16, Trump and Putin engaged in a productive two-and-a-half-hour phone conversation at Russia’s request. Trump characterized the exchange as “very productive” and announced intentions for an upcoming meeting in Budapest, which has yet to occur. He also relayed that Putin congratulated him on the Gaza peace deal.

Following this, Witkoff conferred with another senior Kremlin official, Kirill Dmitriev, in Miami. They deliberated on how assertively Russia should pursue its demands during peace negotiations. The focus for Russia was to optimize its advantages, including recognition of certain territorial claims in Ukraine, such as Crimea and parts of the Donbas.

The peace proposal Witkoff contributed to evolved into a 28-point plan advocated by the US as a framework for negotiations. Nevertheless, Ukraine faces intense pressure to accept conditions that involve significant territorial compromises and a neutral zone within the eastern Donbas. Ukrainian leaders, alongside European allies, remain apprehensive about the potential implications for Ukraine’s sovereignty.

Throughout the call, Witkoff expressed optimism regarding the possibility of a peace agreement, mentioning land swaps, and compromises. He conveyed that President Trump was ready to grant him the latitude to negotiate such terms. Ushakov reacted positively, indicating Moscow's willingness to maintain dialogue.

This exchange sheds light on US-Russian diplomatic efforts and the behind-the-scenes shaping of peace proposals. While discussions progress, the complexities of the situation continue to present challenges in resolving the conflict in Ukraine.

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