Kremlin Calls US Ukraine Peace Proposal Acceptable Ahead Putin-Trump-Zelensky Summit

Russia has confirmed receiving an "acceptable" peace proposal from U.S. President Donald Trump aimed at ending the war in Ukraine, following discussions between Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff and President Vladimir Putin. Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov described the talks as "constructive" and indicated that Moscow is ready to consider the American proposal, which reportedly includes a truce rather than full peace, recognition of certain Russian territorial acquisitions, lifting many sanctions, and resuming energy cooperation. A potential summit involving Putin, Trump, and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky is being considered, with the United Arab Emirates suggested as a possible venue. While Zelensky cautiously welcomed the peace efforts, he emphasized the need for an immediate Russian ceasefire and Western security guarantees, whereas Putin has dismissed direct talks with Zelensky so far due to political disputes. Despite optimism from U.S. officials like Secretary of State Marco Rubio, significant hurdles remain including territorial disputes, Ukrainian concessions, and securing international support, leaving the outcome of the diplomatic initiative uncertain.