Moscow: The Kremlin expressed optimism on Wednesday about the continuation of visits to Moscow by US envoys, as negotiations aimed at reaching a settlement in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict proceed. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov conveyed this sentiment in response to reports of a possible visit by US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and former President Donald Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner.

According to Anadolu Agency, Peskov stated, "We hope that these trips will continue," while addressing journalists. He mentioned that the exact timing of such a visit remains undecided but assured that details would be shared once confirmed. This statement followed a report from The New York Times, which indicated that peace talks between Russia and Ukraine have been occurring behind closed doors in recent weeks. These discussions have persisted despite Witkoff and Kushner's primary focus on the Iran conflict.

The report also highlighted comments made by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy earlier this month, suggesting that the two envoys are planning a visit to Ukraine. However, it noted that the US side is "still waiting for enough progress to warrant such a trip and that they intended to make another visit to Russia as well," according to a source familiar with the ongoing talks.

Witkoff and Kushner have made several trips to Moscow, with their most recent visit taking place in January, when they were accompanied by White House senior adviser Josh Gruenbaum.