Kremlin Backs New Three-Way Ukraine Peace Talks

Russia has agreed to restart three-way negotiations with the United States and Ukraine next month, a move that could revive the first major diplomatic talks since February.

The conflict began over four and a half years ago, with the Trump administration launching significant peace efforts early last year. Despite these initiatives, significant progress remained elusive until recently. In early 2026, representatives from the three nations met twice in Abu Dhabi during January and February, followed by a session in Geneva. While prisoner exchanges occurred, the sides remained stuck on core demands. The diplomatic momentum stalled after a meeting in Oslo, where Russian adviser Yuri Ushakov claimed the resulting proposals contained little real value for resolving the crisis.

This week, U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff spent approximately three hours in St. Petersburg meeting with President Vladimir Putin. U.S. President Donald Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, joined the discussion via video link. The two proposed a technical-level meeting involving all three nations and shared updates on their previous day’s discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. They also explored a postwar economic plan and European security frameworks. Putin indicated he was prepared to consider restoring economic ties with the U.S. and discussed the potential for a trilateral summit in China involving Russian, Chinese, and U.S. leaders next month.

Zelenskyy expressed support for the rapid restart of talks, stating the goal is to end the war and prepare for a leaders-level meeting. He noted that while Russia had previously canceled engagements, the situation now appears different. Meanwhile, Russian officials released retired American teacher Stephen Hubbard, a gesture Witkoff described as a response to Trump’s request. The Kremlin also stated that large-scale joint economic projects are nearing the implementation stage.

The diplomatic efforts come amid continued military pressure. Overnight Russian attacks killed five people and wounded at least 23 across Kyiv and Kharkiv. Energy facilities were targeted in four cities, and the Russian Defense Ministry claimed its air defenses intercepted 373 Ukrainian drones over multiple regions, including Crimea and the Black Sea. Trump pressured Zelenskyy on Tuesday to make a deal, warning of severe consequences if no agreement is reached. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre suggested the new talks could occur in mid-November, noting that Russia is now seeking diplomatic opportunities.

The next critical step involves the technical-level meeting scheduled for mid-November. If successful, this could pave the way for a higher-level summit. The outcome will determine whether the recent diplomatic thaw leads to a formal agreement or if the parties return to their longstanding positions. For now, the focus remains on building a security system for both nations after the conflict ends, as outlined by Ushakov.