Moscow: US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff has indicated that Washington remains "hopeful" about recent diplomatic efforts aimed at bringing Russia and Ukraine to the negotiating table. Witkoff stated that proposals have been put forward which could potentially lead to peace talks between the two countries in the next three weeks, with the possibility of a summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

According to Anadolu Agency, Witkoff shared these insights during an interview with Fox News, highlighting the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which is approaching its fourth anniversary. He referred to the war as a 'silly war' and questioned the value of 'dignity' in the face of significant loss of life. Witkoff expressed optimism about the impact of US-mediated peace talks, stating they have had a 'real positive effect in some respects.'

Witkoff noted that both nations appear reluctant to continue fighting, identifying leadership-level challenges as the primary obstacle to peace. Together with Jared Kushner, US President Donald Trump's son-in-law and unofficial aide, Witkoff has put forward proposals aimed at fostering dialogue between Moscow and Kyiv, potentially culminating in a summit involving Zelenskyy and Putin.

Witkoff also mentioned the potential for a trilateral summit with Trump's involvement, although he clarified that Trump would only participate if he believed a successful resolution was achievable. Witkoff defended his engagement with Putin, emphasizing the importance of understanding the Russian perspective to facilitate a peace agreement.

These remarks followed Witkoff's participation in the latest round of trilateral peace talks held in Geneva, Switzerland. These discussions, conducted earlier this week, built upon prior negotiations held in Abu Dhabi on January 23-24 and February 4-5.