Donald Trump’s Envoy Arrives in Moscow for High-Stakes Ceasefire Talks with Putin

U.S. President Donald Trump's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, landed in Moscow on Thursday ahead of a crucial meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to flight tracking data and a source familiar with the trip, cited in an Axios report. The discussions are a key part of Trump’s efforts to secure a 30-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine.

A Crucial Step Toward a Ceasefire

The U.S. and Ukraine recently agreed on a plan for a temporary truce in the three-year conflict. However, the success of the proposal now depends on Russia’s response. During a meeting with Ireland’s prime minister on Wednesday, Trump made it clear that the next move rests with Moscow.

"It's up to Russia now," Trump told reporters. "We are going to know very soon. I've gotten some positive messages, but a positive message means nothing."

Will Trump and Putin Speak?

Witkoff’s visit raises the possibility of a direct phone call between Trump and Putin later on Thursday. While no official confirmation has been given, the meeting could set the stage for high-level talks between the two leaders.

Meanwhile, Putin’s foreign policy adviser, Yuri Ushakov, spoke with White House National Security Adviser Mike Waltz on Wednesday. Ushakov later told Russian media that he had conveyed Moscow’s concerns about the proposed truce.

Russia Skeptical of Ceasefire Plan

Despite ongoing discussions, Moscow appears wary of the ceasefire proposal. Ushakov suggested that Russia sees the plan as a short-term solution that does not address broader issues in the conflict.

"The proposed ceasefire is nothing more than a temporary breather for Ukrainian forces," he said, adding that Russia is looking for a "long-term settlement" rather than steps that "just imitate peace actions in Ukraine."

As negotiations continue, all eyes are on Moscow to see whether Putin will agree to the ceasefire or push for a different approach.