US envoy's talks with Russia and Ukraine yield first concrete step toward peace talks

US envoy Steve Witkoff's meetings with Ukrainian and Russian leaders have produced the most concrete result so far: both Moscow and Kyiv see possibilities for resuming peace talks, though only at a lower level for now. Witkoff traveled to the US after intensive negotiations in Oslo and St. Petersburg, calling the talks "constructive" while admitting significant work remains. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre expressed optimism, noting high-level talks on post-conflict security systems would be the first since February, with Russia reportedly agreeing in principle to new discussions around November 10. The meetings were overshadowed by Witkoff's flattering remarks toward Putin, praising him as a "humanitarian" after Russia released imprisoned American Stephen Hubbard. Witkoff also announced US approval of Russian diesel exports to lower global fuel prices, drawing criticism from Republican Senator Thom Tillis and others who accused the envoy of easing pressure on Moscow.