Key Takeaways:
Powered by lumidawealth.com
• Putin says the U.S. 28-point peace plan reflects Russian interests but needs major revision.
• Moscow rejects immediate cease-fire, insisting Ukraine relinquish territory or face continued military pressure.
• Putin responds to leaked call involving U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, calling interception a “crime” but downplaying its significance.
• Questions remain over Zelensky’s authority to sign a treaty under wartime law, posing a barrier to negotiations.
What Happened?
Vladimir Putin publicly acknowledged the Biden administration’s proposed 28-point Ukraine peace framework, calling it a credible basis for negotiation but “a list of questions requiring work.” While the U.S. plan included territorial concessions and limits on Ukraine’s military — terms favorable to Russia — Putin signaled no willingness to halt fighting unless Ukrainian forces withdraw. He also commented for the first time on leaked phone transcripts involving U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Kremlin adviser Yuri Ushakov, dismissing them as possibly fake but criticizing the call intercept itself.
Why It Matters?
This marks the clearest signal yet that Moscow sees diplomatic openings — but only on terms that consolidate battlefield gains. The U.S. proposal, partly shaped with Russian input, suggests Washington is testing pragmatic compromises. However, Ukrainian and European revisions have softened pro-Russia elements, complicating alignment. Putin’s remarks also highlight a structural negotiation barrier: he questions Zelensky’s legitimacy to sign any deal under wartime martial law, potentially delaying formal agreement even if terms are reached. The risk of continued escalation remains if diplomacy stalls.
What’s Next?
Talks are expected to continue, with U.S. and Russian aides meeting in Moscow next week — possibly including discussions on nuclear-testing frameworks. Progress hinges on whether Kyiv signals flexibility and whether Russia slows its offensive pace. Western governments must confront whether a negotiated settlement involving territorial concessions is politically viable. Markets and geopolitical analysts will watch for public movement from Zelensky, U.S. messaging shifts, and battlefield momentum — any of which could accelerate or derail diplomatic timelines.
