Moscow signals need for talks with US envoys as timing remains unclear

Russian presidential aide Yury Ushakov told reporters that contacts with US special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are considered necessary, though no dates have been scheduled yet.

“There is an understanding that these contacts are needed, but the dates have not yet been agreed,” Ushakov said when asked about the planned meetings.

Ushakov's recent statement reflects ongoing diplomatic engagement between Moscow and Washington amid efforts to address the Ukraine situation.

The presidential aide has been directly involved in coordinating high-level Russia-US communications, including multiple in-person meetings between President Putin and US envoy Steve Witkoff (sometimes accompanied by Jared Kushner) that took place in late 2025 and early 2026. 

These discussions have focused on potential pathways for resolving the Ukraine conflict, with Ushakov previously describing them as constructive and substantive.

As of mid-June 2026, Ushakov confirmed continued regular contacts with the US negotiators, noting that their next visit to Russia is being actively prepared, even as the envoys are currently occupied with other international matters such as Iran.

By Jeyhun Aghazada