Kremlin Talks: Trump Envoys Discuss Prisoner Swap and Ukraine’s Reconstruction with Putin

Special envoys of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, Stephen Witkoff and Jared Kushner, concluded a high-level meeting with Vladimir Putin in Moscow. The session, which lasted approximately two and a half hours, included key Russian officials such as Vladimir Medinsky and Kirill Dmitriev, head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund.

Security Concerns and Humanitarian Proposals

During the dialogue, the Russian leader characterized the potential presence of foreign troops in Ukraine as a threat to national security. A specific proposal was made regarding a humanitarian operation in Kostiantynivka, Donetsk region. Putin suggested a plan similar to the Oleshky operation, claiming that Russia would guarantee safety provided a five-day window is granted for demining activities.

Prisoner Exchange and Future Architecture

This meeting follows earlier consultations in Abu Dhabi, where a preliminary agreement was reached for a large-scale prisoner swap involving 1,000 for 1,000 individuals or more. Discussions also touched upon the reconstruction of Ukraine and the establishment of a new European security framework. Witkoff stated he intends to brief Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on the outcomes of the Kremlin talks shortly.

The broader negotiation process has involved high-ranking Ukrainian officials, including Rustem Umerov, Kyrylo Budanov, and David Arakhamia. The U.S. delegation previously included General Alexus Grynkewich, highlighting the military and strategic depth of the ongoing diplomatic efforts.