A new round of diplomacy, and a familiar sticking point.
The Witkoff Kushner Putin meeting took place at the Kremlin on Thursday, 12 November, after two days of US-Russia-Ukraine talks in Abu Dhabi. US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner then headed to Dublin to brief Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Both sides spoke of some progress, especially on a prisoner exchange, but no deal on territory has been announced.
Key Highlights
- Trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi ran on 10-11 November, the first since February.
- Kushner said the sides agreed on a new prisoner exchange, which he called the largest of the war so far.
- Putin met the US envoys in Moscow on 12 November and thanked them, the Kremlin said.
- Territory, security guarantees and Europe’s role remain the main open issues.
- The envoys travelled to Dublin to brief Zelenskyy, and a new meeting has been set.
What the US Side Said
Witkoff told CNN, “I think progress was made,” and added that talks had restarted with a new meeting planned. Kushner described “very fulsome and detailed discussions on all the topics.” Earlier, Kushner wrote on X that “significant differences remain.” On Europe, Witkoff said European countries are partners and “it’s important for them to be involved.”
What Russia Said
According to a Kremlin statement, Putin thanked the envoys and asked them to pass his thanks to President Trump. Putin highlighted progress on humanitarian issues, especially the exchange of detainees. He argued for a clear state border and said, “The presence of any foreign troops on Ukrainian territory is absolutely unacceptable to us.” Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said European countries “need to decide whether they want peace or a continuation of the war.”
What Ukraine Said
Zelenskyy wrote on X, “We are working to bring peace closer,” and said it was essential that the United States have a strong position. Kyiv has acknowledged progress on some issues but has rejected giving up territory. Ukrainian negotiator David Arakhamia said another round of talks could follow the Moscow and Dublin meetings.
[The exchange] will reunite families, build trust, and create momentum toward peace.
Jared Kushner on X
Where Each Side Stands
| Issue | Russia’s stated position | Ukraine’s stated position |
|---|---|---|
| Territory | Wants a clear border, no “grey zones” | Will not give up territory |
| Foreign troops | “Absolutely unacceptable” | Seeks security guarantees |
| Europe at the table | Says Europe must decide on peace | Wants a strong US position on Russia |
| Prisoner swap | Notes progress | Sees it as a positive step |
Zelenskyy had earlier said the exchange could involve 1,000 to 1,500 prisoners from each side. No final number or date has been announced yet.
FAQs
Who met Putin in Moscow?
US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, on 12 November 2026.
Was a peace deal signed?
No. Both sides reported progress, but no agreement on territory was announced.
What about the prisoner exchange?
Kushner said a new exchange was agreed; its size and date have not been confirmed.
What happens next?
The envoys went to Dublin to brief Zelenskyy, and a new round of talks has been set.
Do you think these talks can lead to lasting peace? Share your views in the comments.
Details as reported by ABC News, ANI (via WebIndia123) and Hromadske.
