Moscow is signalling that Kyiv must move first in any deal. CBS News reports that Russia says Ukraine must make necessary decisions to end the war, while U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, meeting with Vladimir Putin in Russia, voiced hope for new trilateral talks involving Ukraine. Moscow indicated that the talks could resume in November.
The phrase necessary decisions is a familiar one in Russian diplomacy and is generally understood to refer to Russian demands such as territorial concessions or limits on Ukraine's alliances, though I have not seen the specific wording or the details in the report. Ukraine has rejected such terms in the past, and its president has said that Russia alone is responsible for the war and that he believes he is being pushed to surrender.
A trilateral format, with the United States, Russia and Ukraine at the table, would be a significant development if it happens. Earlier attempts at talks have produced little progress, and the announcement of an energy truce this month was followed by disputes over whether Russia was honouring it. The prospect of resuming talks in November is therefore an indication of intent and not a guarantee.
For civilians in Ukraine, the practical stakes are protection from strikes as winter approaches. Russian bombardment continues, and Kyiv has complained about restrictions on its satellite communications and delays in weapons deliveries. Watch for whether a date and venue are announced, for any change in U.S. policy on sanctions and for reaction from European leaders. Negotiations are difficult to judge from the outside, and statements from each side are often designed to place the blame on the other.
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