US, Russia Seek to Ease Tensions with Talks Amid Ukraine War Frustrations
Amid the conflict in Ukraine, the United States and Russia are attempting to smooth over tensions through high-level talks in Washington, Bloomberg reports.
US special envoy Steve Witkoff is expected to meet with senior Russian negotiator Kirill Dmitriev, according to sources familiar with the plans.
Dmitriev, who runs Russia’s sovereign wealth fund and has played a key role in US-Russia talks, confirmed his presence in Washington, stating on his Telegram channel that he was engaged in meetings with representatives of the US administration, beginning Wednesday and continuing Thursday. He didn’t identify the specific individuals he was meeting with.
“Restoring dialogue is a difficult and gradual process,” Dmitriev said. “A real understanding of the Russian position opens up new opportunities for constructive interaction, including in the investment and economic sphere.”
Dmitriev’s presence in the US capital suggests a potential interest in fostering greater business cooperation between the two countries on projects like those in the Arctic and involving liquefied natural gas.
Both Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of violating the terms of the partial ceasefire, including strikes on energy sites.
The White House continues to push for a full cessation of hostilities in Ukraine, initially aiming for a truce by Easter.
Trump told reporters on Monday he believed Putin would follow through.
“I don’t want to go secondary tariffs on his oil, but I think, you know, something I would do if I thought he wasn’t doing the job.”
Trump also denounced Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky’s role in the situation, questioning reports that his government was seeking new terms for a natural resources partnership that Trump has demanded.
