Fri Dec 05 03:16:27 UTC 2025: Headline: Trump Envoys Push for Ukraine Peace Deal Amid Eased Russia Sanctions
Miami, December 5, 2025 – U.S. President Donald Trump’s envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, are intensifying efforts to broker a peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia. This comes as the Trump administration has partially eased economic pressure on Moscow, raising eyebrows among European diplomats who suspect Russia is seeking to circumvent stricter measures through negotiations.
Witkoff and Kushner are scheduled to meet with Ukrainian negotiator Rustem Umerov in Miami tonight, marking their third such meeting in two weeks. The closed-door gathering follows a five-hour discussion with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow.
Just days after the meeting with Putin, the U.S. Treasury Department suspended sanctions on Lukoil-branded gas stations outside of Russia until at least April 29. While a ban remains in place to prevent funds from flowing back to Russia, the move has been met with skepticism.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated he is seeking “complete information” regarding Putin’s reasons for prolonging the war and expressed Ukraine’s readiness for “any possible developments.” He emphasized the country’s commitment to working with partners to achieve a “dignified peace.”
President Trump described the envoys’ meeting with Putin as “reasonably good,” adding that Putin seemed willing to end the war. However, Putin has not publicly indicated a change in stance, as Russian forces continue to make incremental gains in eastern Ukraine.
During a visit to India, Putin acknowledged Trump’s efforts, stating, “Achieving consensus among competing parties is no easy task, but President Trump…sincerely tries to do this.” He encouraged engagement with the effort rather than obstruction. Putin’s visit to India underscores the easing of Russia’s international isolation.
Reports suggest a potential peace plan involves Ukraine ceding territory currently held by Russia in exchange for security guarantees that fall short of NATO membership. The envoys have been working to modify the plan following previous meetings with Ukrainian representatives.
These diplomatic efforts occur amidst internal challenges for Zelenskyy, who recently removed his top aide and negotiator, Andriy Yermak, due to a corruption investigation. The situation remains fluid, with the world watching closely to see if Trump’s envoys can achieve a breakthrough in the protracted conflict.
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