Trump, Putin call expected this week, as admin edges closer to Russia-Ukraine ceasefire deal: Witkoff

A New Hope for Peace: Trump and Putin’s Upcoming Discussion

The possibility of a ceasefire in Ukraine is gaining momentum, with U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff expressing optimism about the progress being made. In a recent appearance on CNN’s "State of the Union," Witkoff revealed that President Donald Trump is likely to speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin this week. This potential call comes after significant strides in negotiations, with Witkoff emphasizing that the two sides are now closer than ever since Russia invaded Ukraine. "We have never been this close to peace," Witkoff told reporters, highlighting the hope that a deal to end the war could be reached in a matter of weeks.

Witkoff, who met with Putin in Moscow last week, described their conversation as "positive" and "solution-based." The meeting, which lasted between three and four hours, was a follow-up to an earlier visit and builds on the progress made during discussions in Saudi Arabia. There, U.S. and Ukrainian officials, led by National Security Advisor Mike Waltz and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, agreed on the terms of a potential ceasefire with Russia. Witkoff noted that the gaps between the two sides have narrowed significantly, and while several key issues remain, the momentum toward a resolution is undeniable.

Trump’s Active Role in the Peace Talks

President Trump has been deeply involved in the ongoing discussions, with Witkoff stating that the president is briefed in real-time on all developments. "President Trump has been involved in every aspect and dimension of these discussions," Witkoff said. This level of engagement underscores Trump’s commitment to finding a solution to the conflict. Witkoff also mentioned that he briefed Trump, Vice President JD Vance, Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, and Waltz within minutes of his meeting with Putin, ensuring that the administration is aligned and responsive to every detail.

The terms of the potential ceasefire are complex, with the status of four key regions in Ukraine being a central point of discussion. Witkoff explained that the U.S. is engaging not only with Russia and Ukraine but also with European stakeholders, including France, Britain, Norway, and Finland, to ensure a comprehensive agreement. The envoy also highlighted the importance of addressing all elements of a ceasefire, suggesting that the negotiations are thorough and multifaceted.

Witkoff’s Diplomatic Efforts: Bridging the Gap

Witkoff’s recent trip to Moscow was part of a broader diplomatic effort that included stops in Doha, Qatar, where he mediated negotiations between Israel and Hamas over a potential extension of their ceasefire agreement. This dual focus underscores the U.S. commitment to addressing conflicts across the region. Witkoff’s meeting with Putin was his second in the past month, following a successful earlier visit that resulted in the release of U.S. prisoner Marc Fogel. This prior success demonstrates the potential for positive outcomes when diplomacy is pursued with determination and creativity.

The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

While the progress made so far is promising, Witkoff acknowledged that the road to peace is fraught with challenges. "This is a highly complicated situation," he said, but he remains hopeful that the discussions between Trump and Putin will yield results. The upcoming call between the two leaders is seen as a critical moment in the negotiations, with the potential to either accelerate progress or reveal lingering obstacles. Witkoff emphasized that the U.S. is advising Ukraine on all aspects of the discussions, ensuring that Kyiv’s interests are represented and that the eventual agreement is both fair and sustainable.

A Potential Turning Point

As the week unfolds, all eyes are on the planned call between Trump and Putin. The stakes are high, but the optimism expressed by Witkoff and the tangible progress made in recent weeks suggest that a ceasefire in Ukraine may be within reach. While it is too early to predict the outcome, the active involvement of global leaders and the narrowing gaps between the negotiating parties offer a glimmer of hope for a region that has endured immense suffering. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether this momentum can be sustained and whether peace can finally be achieved.