By Calista Oyeoba
The United States is making another major push to end the Russia–Ukraine war, as President Donald Trump announced that his special envoy, Steve Witkoff, will travel to Moscow next week for a new round of peace negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Trump said his administration is “very close” to helping both sides reach a peace agreement, insisting that only a handful of unresolved issues remain. His optimism contrasts sharply with the doubts expressed by several European leaders, who warn that Russia has shown little genuine interest in halting its military operations.
Washington recently revised its earlier 28-point peace proposal—widely criticized for appearing to favor Moscow—by incorporating more of Ukraine’s key demands. Witkoff is expected to present this updated plan to Putin during the upcoming talks. Trump has also indicated his intention to meet both Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky once the framework for peace is nearly finalized.
Despite diplomatic efforts, the conflict continues to escalate on the ground. Russian missile and drone strikes have intensified, hitting multiple Ukrainian cities, killing civilians, and destroying residential areas and critical infrastructure.
In Kyiv, reactions to the renewed peace push remain mixed. Ukrainian negotiator Rustem Umerov confirmed that Ukraine and the U.S. have reached a “common understanding” on core issues, signaling progress in the discussions. However, many Ukrainians remain cautious, expressing concern that some elements of the proposal may fall short of fully protecting the country’s sovereignty and long-term security.
As the war enters another year with devastating humanitarian consequences, millions of displaced civilians and frontline soldiers are watching closely, hoping that the latest diplomatic efforts will finally lead to a durable, meaningful peace.