Trump says end of Ukraine war 'never closer' as Russia and Ukraine agree to US-mediated talks

President Donald Trump said Wednesday that the end of the war in Ukraine has never been closer, following talks with Vladimir Putin and the release of an American detainee. Russia and Ukraine both expressed readiness for trilateral negotiations mediated by the United States after US envoy Steve Witkoff met Putin in St. Petersburg. Kremlin adviser Yuri Ushakov said Moscow is prepared to resume three-way talks around November 10, while President Zelensky said he favors such a meeting as soon as possible. Ushakov noted that proposals from Kiev and European leaders contain little substance, and Russia still demands Ukrainian withdrawal from Donetsk territories. Direct talks in 2025 yielded no progress. Putin also announced the first Russian diesel shipment to the US, part of a sanctions relief deal criticized by Kiev and European allies.