Kushner and Witkoff return to Moscow for Ukraine talks

Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff visited Moscow on September 5, 2026, for talks with Vladimir Putin on ending the war in Ukraine, sparking varied speculation among Russian analysts about the mission's true purpose. The visit is widely seen as a signal rather than a breakthrough, potentially aimed at domestic US politics. Russian experts offered contrasting interpretations: some view the trip as an attempt to gauge Moscow's negotiating position before heading to Kiev, while others see it as a display of diplomatic activity to project momentum amid the failed Iran campaign. Analysts note the US lacks ready-made proposals, with foreign policy resources concentrated elsewhere, and suggest the envoys may be gathering information rather than negotiating seriously. Some commentators drew historical parallels to "shuttle diplomacy" practices, warning of risks, while others emphasized the symbolic importance of restoring dialogue. Analysts generally agree that no substantial progress on Ukraine is expected, with Russia insisting on its unchanged terms and the conflict seen as a broader geopolitical struggle requiring a decisive outcome rather than a negotiated settlement.