Witkoff shares insights from his discussions with Putin: The fate of five Ukrainian  territories is on the table.

US Special Envoy for the Middle East Steve Witkoff characterized his talks with Russian leader Putin on April 11, as “compelling.” Witkoff stated that they explored steps that could bring an end to the war in Ukraine and “open up new business opportunities.” He claims that Putin expressed a desire for “permanent peace.” The official highlighted that the crux of a joint agreement revolves around “five territories.”

“I believe we could be on the brink of something very, very significant for the world as a whole,” he remarked.

Russia is reportedly insisting on sovereignty over five regions: Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia.

In response to Witkoff’s remarks, President Zelenskyy stressed that Ukraine is a sovereign state and that the issue of territories can only be addressed by the Ukrainian people.

“For us, these represent red lines – recognizing any temporarily occupied territories as Russian. Representatives are discussing matters beyond their authority,” he pointed out.

Witkoff further noted that he perceives “an opportunity to reshape Russian-American relations through appealing commercial prospects,” which, in his view, would also foster genuine stability in the region.