White House sees Middle East de-escalation as potential model for Russia-Ukraine peace

The White House has expressed hope that recent de-escalation between Iran and Israel could serve as a positive example for the resolution of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

US President’s Special Envoy Steve Witkoff said the diplomatic progress in the Middle East may inspire broader efforts for peace in Europe, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

"I think the optimism that has arisen as a result of what is happening here may well spread to Russia and Ukraine. <...> We hope that people will look at what happened in Iran and say, 'We also want to be part of the peace process,'" Witkoff stated.

Witkoff added that the United States is hopeful for continued diplomatic momentum in Eastern Europe, saying Washington is counting on “good developments” in resolving the Ukrainian conflict in light of the recent turn of events in the Middle East.

The remarks came as reports emerged suggesting that enriched uranium stockpiles were discreetly evacuated from Iran before the recent exchange of strikes, potentially signaling behind-the-scenes coordination and a willingness to avoid further escalation.

Earlier in the day, US President Donald Trump also commented on the situation, saying he had “no doubt” about Russian President Vladimir Putin’s interest in achieving a peaceful settlement in Ukraine. Trump added that Putin had recently proposed offering mediation assistance in the Middle East, underscoring Russia’s attempts to assert itself as a diplomatic player on the global stage.

By Vafa Guliyeva