US Envoy Meets Putin After Positive Talks with Ukraine’s Zelensky

SAINT PETERSBURG: US envoy Steve Witkoff arrived in Saint Petersburg early Wednesday to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin following what US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described as ‘positive’ talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

The meeting is part of ongoing efforts to mend relations after a contentious period between the US and Ukraine, particularly following President Donald Trump’s controversial diesel-supply deal with Putin and his remarks suggesting Zelensky should be replaced. Zelensky expressed gratitude to Washington for resuming US intelligence sharing on Russian military strikes during his discussions with Witkoff in Oslo.

This diplomatic engagement signals a potential thaw in relations, which have been strained due to differing approaches to the ongoing conflict with Russia. The positive tone from both sides may indicate a willingness to collaborate more closely in addressing security concerns in the region.

Looking ahead, further discussions are expected as Witkoff aims to facilitate a more unified stance between the US and Ukraine while navigating the complexities of international diplomacy with Russia.