Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov (Photo: TASS/VNA)

Speaking to reporters, Peskov said Moscow is well acquainted with Witkoff, who recently played a role in Middle East peace efforts, adding that Russia believes the US’s influence and Mr. Witkoff’s diplomatic skills could encourage Kiev to adopt a more constructive approach to the peace process.

Mr. Peskov reaffirmed Moscow’s consistent stance of favoring direct dialogue and political solutions to end the conflict, which has lasted for over two years.

he Trump administration has recently stepped up diplomatic efforts to reshape global hotspots following an agreement to end the conflict in Gaza. Washington’s move to reopen the dialogue on Ukraine is seen by analysts as a potential opportunity to ease tensions between Russia and the West, which have escalated sharply since 2022.