Overview

• Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed openness to a lasting peace deal during a nearly five-hour meeting with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff in Saint Petersburg on April 15, 2025.
• Discussions centered on ceasefire conditions, the status of five contested Ukrainian territories, and potential economic partnerships between the U.S. and Russia.
• The White House emphasized that a ceasefire is a prerequisite for any economic agreements, signaling a conditional approach to future cooperation.
• A potential face-to-face meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Putin was raised during the talks, which could further advance peace negotiations.
• While no formal agreement has been reached, both sides acknowledged progress and the political will to move toward a comprehensive resolution.