The U.S. has asked Russia to submit a detailed proposal for a new security arrangement that would include specific “symmetrical steps” for the Kremlin to de-escalate tensions and provide guarantees against future attacks on European nations. Sources familiar with the matter say the Trump administration intends to negotiate this security framework and a peace agreement to end the war in Ukraine at the same time, though final implementation of the security pact would only take place after a ceasefire is reached. While the U.S. may be open to some Russian demands regarding NATO’s presence in Eastern Europe, it has stated it will not grant Moscow a veto over European security considerations.
Trump envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff will meet with President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Thursday to press for the proposal and advocate for European inclusion in future peace talks. The diplomatic push follows first-time direct meetings between Russian and Ukrainian negotiators in Abu Dhabi this week, which sources described as initially tense after a nine month hiatus in direct communication. Although European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has previously argued that security architecture can only be discussed after the war, some European officials in Abu Dhabi agreed to participate in both tracks simultaneously provided the final decisions remain contingent on the peace deal.