US Envoy Provided Guidance to Russia on Approaching Trump Over Ukraine Peace Plan

New insights have emerged regarding the development of a controversial United States proposal intended to end the conflict in Ukraine. According to reports, US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff held a brief telephone conversation with Yuri Ushakov, a senior advisor to Russian President Vladimir Putin, in mid-October. During this exchange, Witkoff reportedly advised on strategic communication approaches for Putin when discussing the Ukraine situation with US President Donald Trump.

Witkoff's recommendations included the suggestion that Putin contact Trump prior to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's scheduled visit to the White House. The call was meant to foster dialogue and potentially use recent negotiations related to the Gaza ceasefire as an entry point for broader discussions. Shortly after this communication, the United States presented a 28-point plan outlining terms for a potential resolution to the Ukraine conflict, which called for significant concessions from Ukraine.

This initial proposal attracted criticism from Ukrainian officials and was described by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio as heavily favoring Russian interests. European partners also raised concerns, prompting subsequent diplomatic discussions in Geneva. These negotiations led to revisions in the plan, with the updated version providing Ukraine with additional security guarantees and reflecting the input of European stakeholders.

The transcript of the conversation between Witkoff and Ushakov, published by international media sources, offers a detailed account of the US envoy's negotiation tactics. During the discussion, Ushakov inquired if a direct call from Putin to Trump would be effective. Witkoff responded affirmatively, suggesting that Putin should commend Trump on the Gaza ceasefire agreement and emphasize his respect for Trump's peace efforts. The strategy was intended to set a constructive tone for future dialogue and introduce the idea of a multi-point peace plan for Ukraine, signaling openness to negotiation.

The US administration maintains that Witkoff has maintained regular contact with both Russian and Ukrainian officials, with the objective of pursuing a peaceful resolution to the war. The White House communications office emphasized that Witkoff's role involves frequent dialogue to facilitate progress, in line with directives from President Trump. The Russian government has not issued a formal response regarding the details of these conversations.

Russian President Putin has acknowledged the existence of the US proposal, indicating that the 28-point plan could potentially serve as a basis for future agreements. However, he also noted that the details remain under discussion and that Russia has not yet reached a final position on the plan's provisions. Following developments in Geneva, the United States and its coalition partners have agreed to establish a working group to further refine security guarantees for Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Zelensky is expected to travel to Washington, D.C. soon to continue negotiations with President Trump. Ukrainian officials have expressed the need for a peace agreement that respects international law and provides serious, credible security assurances. Meanwhile, the European Union has conveyed cautious optimism following the Geneva talks, with French President Emmanuel Macron reiterating the necessity of a durable peace that upholds international standards. However, there remains skepticism regarding Russia's willingness to commit to a comprehensive ceasefire at this stage.

As diplomatic efforts continue, the international community is closely monitoring the evolving proposals and the willingness of all parties to engage in substantive negotiations. The outcome of these discussions could have significant ramifications for the future stability and security of Ukraine and the broader region.