US envoy Steve Witkoff is set to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday, following talks held at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. This engagement comes amid heavy discussions regarding an $800 billion “prosperity plan” centered on Ukraine. However, the signing of this ambitious agreement has been delayed due to rising tensions over President Donald Trump’s controversial bid to acquire Greenland.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov indicated that while Moscow would remain tight-lipped about the details of the discussions in Davos, it considers it essential to stay informed on US negotiations with European leaders and Ukraine. Reports from Russian state media suggest a lengthy meeting took place on Tuesday between Witkoff, Jared Kushner, and Russian special envoy Kirill Dmitriev, with Witkoff describing the interactions as “very positive.”
Although the meeting with Putin is confirmed, the delay of the reconstruction plan, which was expected to be solidified in Davos, seems to be a result of distractions related to Greenland. According to the Financial Times, the timing is not right for a momentous agreement with Trump, given the current climate within NATO, which has urged members to stay focused on supporting Ukraine.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte emphasized the critical need to prioritize Ukraine’s security amidst these geopolitical tensions, expressing concerns that the situation could detract from necessary military support for the country, particularly as it continues to face relentless Russian attacks.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy indicated he would forego attending Davos unless important security agreements with the US were finalized. As such, he is opting to remain in Kyiv to supervise ongoing relief efforts, while his country grapples with the repercussions of escalating missile attacks that threaten its energy infrastructure amidst harsh winter conditions.
Recent Russian offensives have resulted in casualties and significant damage in various Ukrainian cities, including the latest strikes on Kryvyi Rih, where two fatalities were reported. While international efforts are underway to seek solutions and stability, the urgency of military support and reconstruction for Ukraine becomes increasingly pressing as attacks continue to disrupt daily life for its citizens.
This continued conflict highlights the resilience of the Ukrainian people and the importance of international alliances aimed at fostering security and stability in the region.