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US envoy Witkoff is optimistic about Ukraine talks and says Putin wants peace

Steve Witkoff, the U.S. Special Envoy to the Ukraine war, expressed optimism ahead of the high-stakes negotiations in Saudi Arabia on Sunday. He said that he thought Russian President Vladimir Putin wished to end the conflict.

Witkoff, a Fox News reporter, said: "I think he's looking for peace."

Later on Sunday, a U.S. delegation will hold discussions in Saudi Arabia with Ukrainian officials about a possible partial truce between Ukraine and Russia. U.S. officials and Russian officials are scheduled to hold further talks Monday in Saudi Arabia.

"I believe that on Monday you will see some real progress in Saudi Arabia, especially as it relates to a Black Sea ceasefire between ships from both countries. Witkoff added that you will naturally move from there to a full-on ceasefire.

Last week, Putin agreed to temporarily stop attacking Ukrainian energy installations but refused to endorse the 30-day ceasefire Trump had hoped would serve as a first step towards a permanent peace agreement. Ukraine accepted Trump's proposal of a 30-day ceasefire.

Witkoff, when asked about Western criticisms of Putin said that he thought there were always two sides to a story. He also played down fears among Washington's NATO partners that Moscow might be emboldened and invade its neighbors if a deal is struck.

"I don't think he is going to try and take over all of Europe," said Witkoff. Witkoff stated that the situation is very different from World War Two. (Reporting and editing by Ross Colvin, Gareth Jones and Phil Stewart)

(source: Reuters)