In Geneva, U.S. and Ukraine officials report progress on ending war with Russia
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Witkoff to Meet Putin as Trump Hails 'Tremendous Progress' on Ukraine Peace Deal
A genuine milestone, or do major differences still remain?
Above: Russian President Vladimir Putin meets with U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff at the Kremlin on Aug 6. Image credit: Kremlin Press Office/Anadolu/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-Trump narrative
Over the past week, the U.S. has made tremendous progress on its way to securing a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine. There are still some points of disagreement that need further work. However, these are not insurmountable — hopefully an agreement is imminent.
Anti-Trump narrative
Despite the Trump administration's talk of progress, a source has identified points of friction that remain between Russia and Ukraine on the agreement. These issues — on territorial concessions, troop numbers and NATO admission — are bitterly disagreed upon by both sides, so to say we are nearly there is a massive overstatement.
Pro-Ukraine narrative
Ukraine, working alongside its partners in the U.S., has developed a framework for a peace deal that it's prepared to move forward with. However, there are still some sensitive issues that need to be resolved. President Zelenskyy is ready to meet President Trump to discuss these issues, and the involvement of European countries could also be beneficial.
Pro-Russia narrative
Russia has received multiple versions of the framework agreement through unofficial channels. To avoid confusion and complications, Russia is awaiting official clarification. These matters will be looked at more detail when the Kremlin welcomes U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff next week.
Metaculus Prediction
The Controversies
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© 2025 Improve the News Foundation.
All rights reserved.
Version 6.18.1