A crucial delegation, led by US special envoy Steve Witkoff, is preparing for a high-stakes journey to Moscow next week. The purpose: to explore potential pathways toward resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This move signals a renewed, though discreet, effort to engage directly with Russian officials.
The confirmation of this trip came from Yury Ushakov, a key advisor to President Vladimir Putin on international affairs. Ushakov addressed the visit in response to a Bloomberg report detailing alleged leaked phone conversations between himself, Witkoff, and Kirill Dmitriev, a senior Russian negotiator. The report ignited speculation about the nature of ongoing back-channel discussions.
Ushakov remained tight-lipped regarding the authenticity of the leaked transcripts, adhering to a policy of not commenting on confidential communications. He neither confirmed nor denied their veracity, but strongly suggested the leak was a deliberate attempt to damage the fragile relationship between Russia and the United States.
“Somebody tapped, somebody leaked, but not us,” Ushakov stated, hinting at external interference designed to disrupt diplomatic efforts. The implication is clear: the release of these conversations wasn’t an authorized action from within the Russian government, but rather a calculated move to sow discord.
Further details regarding the agenda and specific goals of the Moscow visit are expected to emerge as the delegation prepares to depart. The world watches with cautious optimism, recognizing the immense challenges and potential significance of these upcoming discussions.
