As US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff visited war-torn Gaza, Hamas condemned Trump envoy's visit to the site operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Fund, calling it a "pre-arranged theatrical performance". However, the terror group also vowed not to disarm as long as the occupation exists and until there is a fully sovereign Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital.&nbsp;This comes hours after Witkoff told the families of hostages that Hamas has said it is ready to demilitarise. The Palestinian militant group said that Witkoff's visit is providing a political cover for managing starvation.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-trump-is-humanitarian-with-big-heart-us-president-to-approve-new-gaza-aid-plan-after-witkoff-and-huckabee-visit-strip-1753997177197">Also read: 'Trump is humanitarian with big heart': US President to approve new Gaza aid plan after Witkoff and Huckabee visit Strip</a>&nbsp;"Witkoff’s visit was nothing more than a pre-arranged theatrical performance aimed at misleading public opinion, polishing the image of the occupation, and providing it with political cover for managing starvation and continuing the systematic killing of children and unarmed civilians from our people in the Gaza Strip," Hamas stated.<h2>'American administration partner in crime'</h2>The Palestinian militant group Hamas slammed further, saying that the Trump administration is a full partner in the crime of genocide in Gaza.&nbsp;“The American administration is a full partner in the crime of starvation and genocide taking place in plain sight of the entire world,” it said.&nbsp;It further said that Witkoff’s misleading statements, along with the broadcast of propaganda images "attempting to portray the aid distribution as peaceful", are contradicted by the facts on the ground where he stood.&nbsp;“We call on the American administration to bear its historical responsibility by lifting the cover from the crime of the century in Gaza and moving towards a ceasefire agreement that leads to ending the aggression and the withdrawal of the occupation army," Hamas stated.&nbsp;Hamas further stressed that it won't disarm, vowing to continue its violent struggle "as long as the occupation exists".

Palestinian militant group Hamas said that Witkoff's visit is providing a political cover for managing starvation, adding that the Trump administration is a full partner in the crime of genocide in Gaza.

As US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff visited war-torn Gaza, Hamas condemned Trump envoy's visit to the site operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Fund, calling it a "pre-arranged theatrical performance". However, the terror group also vowed not to disarm as long as the occupation exists and until there is a fully sovereign Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital. This comes hours after Witkoff told the families of hostages that Hamas has said it is ready to demilitarise. The Palestinian militant group said that Witkoff's visit is providing a political cover for managing starvation. Also read: 'Trump is humanitarian with big heart': US President to approve new Gaza aid plan after Witkoff and Huckabee visit Strip "Witkoff’s visit was nothing more than a pre-arranged theatrical performance aimed at misleading public opinion, polishing the image of the occupation, and providing it with political cover for managing starvation and continuing the systematic killing of children and unarmed civilians from our people in the Gaza Strip," Hamas stated. 'American administration partner in crime' The Palestinian militant group Hamas slammed further, saying that the Trump administration is a full partner in the crime of genocide in Gaza. “The American administration is a full partner in the crime of starvation and genocide taking place in plain sight of the entire world,” it said. It further said that Witkoff’s misleading statements, along with the broadcast of propaganda images "attempting to portray the aid distribution as peaceful", are contradicted by the facts on the ground where he stood. “We call on the American administration to bear its historical responsibility by lifting the cover from the crime of the century in Gaza and moving towards a ceasefire agreement that leads to ending the aggression and the withdrawal of the occupation army," Hamas stated. Hamas further stressed that it won't disarm, vowing to continue its violent struggle "as long as the occupation exists".

Palestinian militant group Hamas said that Witkoff's visit is providing a political cover for managing starvation, adding that the Trump administration is a full partner in the crime of genocide in Gaza.

'Trump admin full partner in crime of genocide': Hamas slams envoy Witkoff's visit to Gaza amid starvation crisis

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (July 31) had a slight change in tone while addressing the Gaza humanitarian crisis, as he said that the fastest way to end the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is for Hamas to "surrender". This comes amid US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff's visit to Israel to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.&nbsp;Trump took to Truth Social, posting that Hamas has to surrender and release the hostages to end the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.&nbsp;“The fastest way to end the Humanitarian Crises in Gaza is for Hamas to SURRENDER AND RELEASE THE HOSTAGES!!!," the US president said in a Truth Social post.&nbsp;Although Trump has been a vivid supporter of Netanyahu, earlier this week, he acknowledged that there is a "real starvation in Gaza", while the Israeli PM claims there is no starvation.&nbsp;According to the World Health Organisation, there have been 63 malnutrition-related deaths in Gaza in July, while 24 of them were children under the age of five.<h2>Witkoff meets Netanyahu</h2>Meanwhile, Witkoff is currently meeting with Israeli PM Netanyahu at his office in Jerusalem, according to the Prime Minister's Office. Netanyahu also shared a pair of pictures of the two speaking; however, the details have not been revealed yet.&nbsp;Notably, this is Witkoff's first public visit to Israel since May, which comes amid the Gaza starvation crisis.&nbsp;Moreover, an American doctor has invited Trump's Middle East envoy to visit the Nasser Hospital in southern Gaza, where he is currently working, to show them the starving children. “There are children who are starving. I’ve seen them with my own eyes,” Dr Thomas Adamkiewicz, a paediatrician, told the BBC. “This is barbaric. It’s a crime scene.”<h2>US sanctions Palestinian Authority</h2>The US State Department on Thursday said that it will impose sanctions on the Palestinian Authority and members of the Palestinian Liberation Organisation as it accused them of undermining peace efforts.&nbsp;It further prevents those targeted from receiving visas to travel to the United States, according to the statement. “It is in our national security interests to impose consequences and hold the PLO and PA accountable for not complying with their commitments and undermining the prospects for peace,” the statement reads.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Trump took to Truth Social, posting that Hamas has to surrender and release the hostages to end the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. This comes amid US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff's visit to Israel to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (July 31) had a slight change in tone while addressing the Gaza humanitarian crisis, as he said that the fastest way to end the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is for Hamas to "surrender". This comes amid US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff's visit to Israel to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Trump took to Truth Social, posting that Hamas has to surrender and release the hostages to end the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. “The fastest way to end the Humanitarian Crises in Gaza is for Hamas to SURRENDER AND RELEASE THE HOSTAGES!!!," the US president said in a Truth Social post. Although Trump has been a vivid supporter of Netanyahu, earlier this week, he acknowledged that there is a "real starvation in Gaza", while the Israeli PM claims there is no starvation. According to the World Health Organisation, there have been 63 malnutrition-related deaths in Gaza in July, while 24 of them were children under the age of five. Witkoff meets Netanyahu Meanwhile, Witkoff is currently meeting with Israeli PM Netanyahu at his office in Jerusalem, according to the Prime Minister's Office. Netanyahu also shared a pair of pictures of the two speaking; however, the details have not been revealed yet. Notably, this is Witkoff's first public visit to Israel since May, which comes amid the Gaza starvation crisis. Moreover, an American doctor has invited Trump's Middle East envoy to visit the Nasser Hospital in southern Gaza, where he is currently working, to show them the starving children. “There are children who are starving. I’ve seen them with my own eyes,” Dr Thomas Adamkiewicz, a paediatrician, told the BBC. “This is barbaric. It’s a crime scene.” US sanctions Palestinian Authority The US State Department on Thursday said that it will impose sanctions on the Palestinian Authority and members of the Palestinian Liberation Organisation as it accused them of undermining peace efforts. It further prevents those targeted from receiving visas to travel to the United States, according to the statement. “It is in our national security interests to impose consequences and hold the PLO and PA accountable for not complying with their commitments and undermining the prospects for peace,” the statement reads.

Trump took to Truth Social, posting that Hamas has to surrender and release the hostages to end the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. This comes amid US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff's visit to Israel to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

'RELEASE THE HOSTAGES': Trump says Hamas surrender would end Gaza crisis as envoy Steve Witkoff meets Netanyahu

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that Israel will not surrender to Hamas’s demands in ongoing ceasefire talks, warning the group not to mistake Israel’s willingness to negotiate as weakness. “If Hamas understands our readiness to reach a deal as weakness, as an opportunity to dictate terms of surrender to us that will endanger Israel, it is greatly mistaken,” Netanyahu said at a state ceremony marking 85 years since the death of Zionist leader Ze’ev Jabotinsky.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-aid-trucks-enter-gaza-but-supplies-are-undelivered-gaza-is-starving-israel-blames-the-un-the-un-blames-israel-what-s-really-happening-1753375145809">‘Aid trucks enter Gaza, but supplies are undelivered’: Gaza is starving. Israel blames the UN. The UN blames Israel. What’s really happening?</a>He added, “We are determined to achieve all the aims of the war.” Speaking about the hostages still being held in Gaza, Netanyahu said, “We are determined to bring everyone back, and that is what we will do.”<h2>Netanyahu promises support to Druze community</h2>Netanyahu also addressed tensions on Israel’s northern border, pledging to support the Druze community in southern Syria. “We will not abandon our Druze brothers in southern Syria. We will make sure the territory south of Damascus, along our border, is free of weapons, and we will do everything we need to help and protect the Druze,” he said.<h2>US ends ceasefire talks, calls Hamas ‘not serious’</h2>The United States has decided to withdraw its negotiating team from ceasefire talks in Qatar after what it described as an unhelpful response from Hamas. Steve Witkoff, President Donald Trump’s special envoy, said, “While the mediators have made a great effort, Hamas does not appear to be coordinated or acting in good faith. We will now consider alternative options to bring the hostages home and try to create a more stable environment for the people of Gaza.”Witkoff added the US remains “resolute” in seeking an end to the conflict, but criticised Hamas’s response. “It’s a shame that Hamas has acted in this selfish way,” he said.<h2>Israel recalls its team from Qatar</h2>Shortly after the US move, Netanyahu’s office said Israel was also recalling its negotiating team from Qatar. In a brief statement, the government thanked Witkoff and mediators from Qatar and Egypt but did not give further details.The talks had been focused on a proposed 60-day ceasefire during which Hamas would release 10 living hostages and the remains of 18 others in stages. In exchange, Israel would release Palestinian prisoners, increase aid into Gaza, and enter negotiations over a long-term truce.<h2>No deal as both sides stand firm</h2>Talks in Qatar have gone on for weeks with only minor signs of progress. Officials say the main roadblock is over what happens after any ceasefire takes effect. Hamas is demanding a full Israeli withdrawal and a permanent end to the war. Israel, on the other hand, says it will not agree to end the war unless Hamas disarms and gives up power, something Hamas rejects.The US State Department had earlier said Witkoff would travel to the Middle East for more discussions, but officials later confirmed he would instead be heading to Europe. It remains unclear whether he held any meetings there on Thursday.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu says Israel won't accept Hamas's terms in ceasefire talks, warning the group not to mistake negotiation for weakness. The US has pulled out of mediation efforts, calling Hamas "not serious," and Israel has recalled its team from Qatar.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that Israel will not surrender to Hamas’s demands in ongoing ceasefire talks, warning the group not to mistake Israel’s willingness to negotiate as weakness. “If Hamas understands our readiness to reach a deal as weakness, as an opportunity to dictate terms of surrender to us that will endanger Israel, it is greatly mistaken,” Netanyahu said at a state ceremony marking 85 years since the death of Zionist leader Ze’ev Jabotinsky. Also read: ‘Aid trucks enter Gaza, but supplies are undelivered’: Gaza is starving. Israel blames the UN. The UN blames Israel. What’s really happening? He added, “We are determined to achieve all the aims of the war.” Speaking about the hostages still being held in Gaza, Netanyahu said, “We are determined to bring everyone back, and that is what we will do.” Netanyahu promises support to Druze community Netanyahu also addressed tensions on Israel’s northern border, pledging to support the Druze community in southern Syria. “We will not abandon our Druze brothers in southern Syria. We will make sure the territory south of Damascus, along our border, is free of weapons, and we will do everything we need to help and protect the Druze,” he said. US ends ceasefire talks, calls Hamas ‘not serious’ The United States has decided to withdraw its negotiating team from ceasefire talks in Qatar after what it described as an unhelpful response from Hamas. Steve Witkoff, President Donald Trump’s special envoy, said, “While the mediators have made a great effort, Hamas does not appear to be coordinated or acting in good faith. We will now consider alternative options to bring the hostages home and try to create a more stable environment for the people of Gaza.” Witkoff added the US remains “resolute” in seeking an end to the conflict, but criticised Hamas’s response. “It’s a shame that Hamas has acted in this selfish way,” he said. Israel recalls its team from Qatar Shortly after the US move, Netanyahu’s office said Israel was also recalling its negotiating team from Qatar. In a brief statement, the government thanked Witkoff and mediators from Qatar and Egypt but did not give further details. The talks had been focused on a proposed 60-day ceasefire during which Hamas would release 10 living hostages and the remains of 18 others in stages. In exchange, Israel would release Palestinian prisoners, increase aid into Gaza, and enter negotiations over a long-term truce. No deal as both sides stand firm Talks in Qatar have gone on for weeks with only minor signs of progress. Officials say the main roadblock is over what happens after any ceasefire takes effect. Hamas is demanding a full Israeli withdrawal and a permanent end to the war. Israel, on the other hand, says it will not agree to end the war unless Hamas disarms and gives up power, something Hamas rejects. The US State Department had earlier said Witkoff would travel to the Middle East for more discussions, but officials later confirmed he would instead be heading to Europe. It remains unclear whether he held any meetings there on Thursday.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu says Israel won't accept Hamas's terms in ceasefire talks, warning the group not to mistake negotiation for weakness. The US has pulled out of mediation efforts, calling Hamas "not serious," and Israel has recalled its team from Qatar.

'Hamas acted in selfish way': Israel recalls negotiators, US walks away from Gaza talks - What went wrong?

Trump's primary liaison to Russian President Vladimir Putin, Steve Witkoff has been called a "bumbling f***ing idiot" by a White House insider. The source claimed that Witkoff takes part in meetings alone, and does not follow the protocols.&nbsp;
US President Donald Trump's special peace talks envoy has been actively participating in the talks with the Russian president.&nbsp;
Moreover, Witkoff has also tried to negotiate a ceasefire in the Middle East in negotiations with Israel and Hamas.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/3-hours-2-proposals-secret-putin-witkoff-meet-puts-direct-talks-on-table-where-does-the-russia-ukraine-peace-plan-stand-now-9002380">3 hours, 2 proposals: Secret Putin-Witkoff meet puts &lsquo;direct talks&rsquo; on table. Where does Russia-Ukraine peace plan stand now?</a>
Sometimes, the US special envoy also uses Kremlin translators in a major breach of diplomatic protocol, the source alleged, according to a New York Post report.&nbsp;
The source further told the Daily Beast that Witkoff did not follow the usual security procedures in his meetings with Putin and other Russian negotiators in Moscow.&nbsp;
&ldquo;There are certain protocols involved whenever there are talks at the Kremlin&ndash;and Witkoff does not follow them,&rdquo; the insider said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-russian-general-yaroslav-moskalik-killed-in-car-bomb-as-witkoff-visits-moscow-kremlin-russia-ukraine-war-9001256">&lsquo;Terrorist attack&rsquo;: Top Russian general killed in car bomb as Witkoff visits Moscow - Inside blasts targeting Kremlin insiders</a>
During the last meeting in Russia, Witkoff reportedly went to meet Putin without the unusual group of advisers, while the Russian president came with his aides, Yury Ushakov, and Kiriv Dmitiev, head of Russia's sovereign wealth fund.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Nice guy, but a bumbling f***ing idiot. He should not be doing this alone,&rdquo; a member of Trump&rsquo;s first administration told the Post.
Meanwhile, former US Ambassador to Russia Michael McFaul took to X, calling Witkoff a "mailman for Putin".&nbsp;
&ldquo;If Trump finally got serious about mediating an end to the war in Ukraine, he would appoint one person to talk to both sides &mdash; shuttle diplomacy &mdash; and preferably someone with some experience in diplomacy. Witkoff acts as a mailman for Putin. He is not negotiating anything,&rdquo; McFaul said.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hostages-parents-express-frustration-over-netanyahus-lack-of-efforts-witkoff-cried-israeli-pm-didnt-even-know-our-son-was-wounded-8969152">Hostage's parents express frustration over Netanyahu's 'lack of efforts'; 'Witkoff cried, Israeli PM didn&rsquo;t even know our son was wounded'</a>
Notably, Putin and US envoy Steve Witkoff held their fourth round of discussions on Friday (April 25), with the Kremlin confirming that the talks were both &ldquo;constructive&rdquo; and &ldquo;very useful.&rdquo;
The meeting lasted three hours and included a discussion on the possibility of restarting direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.&nbsp;
&ldquo;There was a three-hour conversation that was constructive and very useful,&rdquo; Ushakov said. &ldquo;There was a discussion on the possibility of renewing direct negotiations between representatives of the Russian Federation and Ukraine.&rdquo;
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/steve-witkoff-compared-l&eacute;lys&eacute;e-palace-in-paris-to-donald-trumps-mar-a-lago-residence-watch-8975545">Steve Witkoff compares l'&Eacute;lys&eacute;e Palace in Paris to Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence, WATCH</a>

Witkoff reportedly went to meet Putin without the unusual group of advisers, while the Russian president came with his aides, Yury Ushakov, and Kiriv Dmitiev. WORLD

Trump's primary liaison to Russian President Vladimir Putin, Steve Witkoff has been called a "bumbling f***ing idiot" by a White House insider. The source claimed that Witkoff takes part in meetings alone, and does not follow the protocols. US President Donald Trump's special peace talks envoy has been actively participating in the talks with the Russian president. Moreover, Witkoff has also tried to negotiate a ceasefire in the Middle East in negotiations with Israel and Hamas. Also read: 3 hours, 2 proposals: Secret Putin-Witkoff meet puts ‘direct talks’ on table. Where does Russia-Ukraine peace plan stand now? Sometimes, the US special envoy also uses Kremlin translators in a major breach of diplomatic protocol, the source alleged, according to a New York Post report. The source further told the Daily Beast that Witkoff did not follow the usual security procedures in his meetings with Putin and other Russian negotiators in Moscow. “There are certain protocols involved whenever there are talks at the Kremlin–and Witkoff does not follow them,” the insider said. Also read: ‘Terrorist attack’: Top Russian general killed in car bomb as Witkoff visits Moscow - Inside blasts targeting Kremlin insiders During the last meeting in Russia, Witkoff reportedly went to meet Putin without the unusual group of advisers, while the Russian president came with his aides, Yury Ushakov, and Kiriv Dmitiev, head of Russia's sovereign wealth fund. “Nice guy, but a bumbling f***ing idiot. He should not be doing this alone,” a member of Trump’s first administration told the Post. Meanwhile, former US Ambassador to Russia Michael McFaul took to X, calling Witkoff a "mailman for Putin". “If Trump finally got serious about mediating an end to the war in Ukraine, he would appoint one person to talk to both sides — shuttle diplomacy — and preferably someone with some experience in diplomacy. Witkoff acts as a mailman for Putin. He is not negotiating anything,” McFaul said. Also read: Hostage's parents express frustration over Netanyahu's 'lack of efforts'; 'Witkoff cried, Israeli PM didn’t even know our son was wounded' Notably, Putin and US envoy Steve Witkoff held their fourth round of discussions on Friday (April 25), with the Kremlin confirming that the talks were both “constructive” and “very useful.” The meeting lasted three hours and included a discussion on the possibility of restarting direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. “There was a three-hour conversation that was constructive and very useful,” Ushakov said. “There was a discussion on the possibility of renewing direct negotiations between representatives of the Russian Federation and Ukraine.” Also read: Steve Witkoff compares l'Élysée Palace in Paris to Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence, WATCH

'Bumbling f***ing idiot': Trump allies bash Russian envoy Steve Witkoff, calls him 'mailman for Putin'

Russian President Vladimir Putin and US envoy Steve Witkoff held their fourth round of discussions on Friday (April 25), with the Kremlin confirming that the talks were both &ldquo;constructive&rdquo; and &ldquo;very useful.&rdquo;
Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov told reporters that the meeting lasted three hours and included a discussion on the possibility of restarting direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. &ldquo;There was a three-hour conversation that was constructive and very useful,&rdquo; Ushakov said. &ldquo;There was a discussion on the possibility of renewing direct negotiations between representatives of the Russian Federation and Ukraine.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-24-hour-ukraine-war-fix-was-just-an-exaggeration-but-peace-deal-must-happen-now-9002070" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Just a joke&rsquo;: Trump says 24-hour Ukraine war fix was just &lsquo;an exaggeration&rsquo; but peace deal must happen now</a>
He added that the talks helped narrow the gap between the US and Russia, not just on Ukraine, but on other matters as well. Productive dialogue, he said, is expected to continue at different levels.
<h2>Zelensky calls for more pressure as missile hits Kyiv</h2>
As news of the Kremlin meeting emerged, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky renewed his calls for stronger international pressure on Russia. Posting on social media, he said that a North Korean missile was used in a recent attack on Kyiv that killed 12 civilians.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-russia-ukraine-peace-plan-meets-crimea-roadblock-why-russia-wants-it-desperately-what-is-its-history-9001857" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump's Russia-Ukraine peace plan meets Crimea roadblock: Why Russia wants it desperately? What is its history?</a>
&ldquo;Insufficient pressure on Russia allows them to import such missiles and other weapons and use them here, in Europe," Zelensky wrote.
He also criticised a lack of action against North Korea and its partners. &ldquo;Insufficient pressure on North Korea and its allies allows them to make such ballistic missiles. The missile that killed the Kyiv residents contained at least 116 parts imported from other countries, and most of them, unfortunately, were made by US companies,&rdquo; he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-russian-general-yaroslav-moskalik-killed-in-car-bomb-as-witkoff-visits-moscow-kremlin-russia-ukraine-war-9001256" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Terrorist attack&rsquo;: Top Russian general killed in car bomb as Witkoff visits Moscow - Inside blasts targeting Kremlin insiders</a>
Zelensky also pointed out that it has been 45 days since Ukraine agreed to a proposal by Donald Trump for &ldquo;quiet in the sky, sea and the frontline.&rdquo;
&ldquo;Russia rejects all this. Without pressure, this cannot be resolved. Pressure on Russia is necessary,&rdquo; he said.
<h2>US and Europe offer differing views on peace terms</h2>
According to Reuters, two separate documents, one from the US and another from Europe and Ukraine, offer different perspectives on how to bring the war to an end.
<h2>Security guarantees:</h2>
Both proposals include a plan for security guarantees. However, the European and Ukrainian version goes further by suggesting a collective defence model similar to NATO&rsquo;s Article 5, which treats an attack on one member as an attack on all.
<h2>Return of children and prisoners:</h2>
Only the European and Ukrainian proposal calls for the return of Ukrainian children taken to Russian-controlled areas and the exchange of all prisoners of war.
Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-vs-russia-drone-war-rages-how-new-technology-is-changing-warfare-wion-untangled-9002156" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Ukraine vs Russia drone war rages | How new technology is changing warfare | WION Untangled</a>
<h2>Territorial recognition:</h2>
The US draft recognises Russia&rsquo;s annexation of five Ukrainian regions&mdash;Crimea, Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson&mdash;which Steve Witkoff reportedly sees as essential to securing peace.
<h2>Rebuilding and compensation:</h2>
Both proposals back the idea of rebuilding Ukraine and providing compensation for the war. The US version doesn&rsquo;t specify who would pay, but Europe and Ukraine&rsquo;s plan clearly states that frozen Russian assets would be used until full compensation is delivered.

World: Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov told reporters that the meeting lasted three hours and included a discussion on the possibility of restarting direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and US envoy Steve Witkoff held their fourth round of discussions on Friday (April 25), with the Kremlin confirming that the talks were both “constructive” and “very useful.” Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov told reporters that the meeting lasted three hours and included a discussion on the possibility of restarting direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. “There was a three-hour conversation that was constructive and very useful,” Ushakov said. “There was a discussion on the possibility of renewing direct negotiations between representatives of the Russian Federation and Ukraine.” Also read: ‘Just a joke’: Trump says 24-hour Ukraine war fix was just ‘an exaggeration’ but peace deal must happen now He added that the talks helped narrow the gap between the US and Russia, not just on Ukraine, but on other matters as well. Productive dialogue, he said, is expected to continue at different levels. Zelensky calls for more pressure as missile hits Kyiv As news of the Kremlin meeting emerged, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky renewed his calls for stronger international pressure on Russia. Posting on social media, he said that a North Korean missile was used in a recent attack on Kyiv that killed 12 civilians. Also read: Trump's Russia-Ukraine peace plan meets Crimea roadblock: Why Russia wants it desperately? What is its history? “Insufficient pressure on Russia allows them to import such missiles and other weapons and use them here, in Europe," Zelensky wrote. He also criticised a lack of action against North Korea and its partners. “Insufficient pressure on North Korea and its allies allows them to make such ballistic missiles. The missile that killed the Kyiv residents contained at least 116 parts imported from other countries, and most of them, unfortunately, were made by US companies,” he added. Also read: ‘Terrorist attack’: Top Russian general killed in car bomb as Witkoff visits Moscow - Inside blasts targeting Kremlin insiders Zelensky also pointed out that it has been 45 days since Ukraine agreed to a proposal by Donald Trump for “quiet in the sky, sea and the frontline.” “Russia rejects all this. Without pressure, this cannot be resolved. Pressure on Russia is necessary,” he said. US and Europe offer differing views on peace terms According to Reuters, two separate documents, one from the US and another from Europe and Ukraine, offer different perspectives on how to bring the war to an end. Security guarantees: Both proposals include a plan for security guarantees. However, the European and Ukrainian version goes further by suggesting a collective defence model similar to NATO’s Article 5, which treats an attack on one member as an attack on all. Return of children and prisoners: Only the European and Ukrainian proposal calls for the return of Ukrainian children taken to Russian-controlled areas and the exchange of all prisoners of war. Watch: Ukraine vs Russia drone war rages | How new technology is changing warfare | WION Untangled Territorial recognition: The US draft recognises Russia’s annexation of five Ukrainian regions—Crimea, Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson—which Steve Witkoff reportedly sees as essential to securing peace. Rebuilding and compensation: Both proposals back the idea of rebuilding Ukraine and providing compensation for the war. The US version doesn’t specify who would pay, but Europe and Ukraine’s plan clearly states that frozen Russian assets would be used until full compensation is delivered.

3 hours, 2 proposals: Secret Putin-Witkoff meet puts ‘direct talks’ on table. Where does Russia-Ukraine peace plan stand now?

A top Russian military official, General Yaroslav Moskalik, has been killed in a car explosion in the city of Balashikha, just east of Moscow, Russian authorities confirmed on Friday. The explosion coincided with US special envoy Steve Witkoff's visit to Moscow.
Russian news outlet Tass reported that Maria Zakharova, Russia&rsquo;s foreign ministry spokesperson, called the killing of Lt Gen Yaroslav Moskalik a &ldquo;terrorist attack&rdquo;.
Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/in-rare-rebuke-donald-trump-urges-putin-to-end-war-after-russias-deadly-attack-8999774" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">In Rare Rebuke, Donald Trump Urges Putin To End War After Russia's Deadly Attack</a>
According to a statement from Russia&rsquo;s Investigative Committee, the blast was caused by an improvised explosive device (IED) packed with shrapnel. General Moskalik was serving as the deputy head of the Main Operations Directorate of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces.
The general was reportedly inside a Volkswagen Golf when the explosion occurred. The Investigative Committee has launched a criminal investigation and deployed a team of forensic experts and law enforcement officers to examine the site of the blast.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/witkoff-spreading-russian-narratives-zelensky-blames-trump-envoy-says-ukraine-us-minerals-deal-could-be-signed-today-8973738" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'US envoy spreading Russian narratives': Zelensky blames Witkoff, says Ukraine-US minerals deal could be signed today</a>
State-run news agency Tass also reported that a homemade explosive device had detonated the vehicle in Balashikha, a city located less than 20 miles from Moscow.
<h2>Second blast in Moscow area this week</h2>
This incident follows another explosion earlier in the week when a fire broke out in an underground car park in Moscow&rsquo;s business district after a separate blast. The events have raised concerns about a possible pattern of targeted attacks.
This adds to a growing list of fatal incidents involving figures aligned with Russia's war in Ukraine.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-stop-trump-slams-putin-for-russian-strikes-on-kyiv-tells-him-to-stop-attacking-ukraine-8998156" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Vladimir, STOP': Trump slams Putin for Russian strikes on Kyiv, tells him to stop attacking Ukraine</a>
Back in February, Armen Sarkisyan, a known pro-Russia separatist from Ukraine, was killed in a bombing at a gated residence in Moscow. Ukrainian officials also declined to comment at that time.
In December last year, Igor Kirillov, a general responsible for overseeing Russia&rsquo;s nuclear and chemical weapons protection forces, was killed by a bomb near a residential building in the capital. An official from Ukraine&rsquo;s Security Service (SBU) later claimed responsibility for that attack.

World: According to a statement from Russia’s Investigative Committee, the blast was caused by an improvised explosive device (IED) packed with shrapnel.

A top Russian military official, General Yaroslav Moskalik, has been killed in a car explosion in the city of Balashikha, just east of Moscow, Russian authorities confirmed on Friday. The explosion coincided with US special envoy Steve Witkoff's visit to Moscow. Russian news outlet Tass reported that Maria Zakharova, Russia’s foreign ministry spokesperson, called the killing of Lt Gen Yaroslav Moskalik a “terrorist attack”. Watch: In Rare Rebuke, Donald Trump Urges Putin To End War After Russia's Deadly Attack According to a statement from Russia’s Investigative Committee, the blast was caused by an improvised explosive device (IED) packed with shrapnel. General Moskalik was serving as the deputy head of the Main Operations Directorate of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces. The general was reportedly inside a Volkswagen Golf when the explosion occurred. The Investigative Committee has launched a criminal investigation and deployed a team of forensic experts and law enforcement officers to examine the site of the blast. Also read: 'US envoy spreading Russian narratives': Zelensky blames Witkoff, says Ukraine-US minerals deal could be signed today State-run news agency Tass also reported that a homemade explosive device had detonated the vehicle in Balashikha, a city located less than 20 miles from Moscow. Second blast in Moscow area this week This incident follows another explosion earlier in the week when a fire broke out in an underground car park in Moscow’s business district after a separate blast. The events have raised concerns about a possible pattern of targeted attacks. This adds to a growing list of fatal incidents involving figures aligned with Russia's war in Ukraine. Also read: 'Vladimir, STOP': Trump slams Putin for Russian strikes on Kyiv, tells him to stop attacking Ukraine Back in February, Armen Sarkisyan, a known pro-Russia separatist from Ukraine, was killed in a bombing at a gated residence in Moscow. Ukrainian officials also declined to comment at that time. In December last year, Igor Kirillov, a general responsible for overseeing Russia’s nuclear and chemical weapons protection forces, was killed by a bomb near a residential building in the capital. An official from Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) later claimed responsibility for that attack.

‘Terrorist attack’: Top Russian general killed in car bomb as Witkoff visits Moscow - Inside blasts targeting Kremlin insiders

France hosted high-level talks on Thursday to discuss Ukraine and its security, the first time. This is the first time since President Donald Trump took over the White House that top American, Ukrainian and European officials have met to discuss an end to the Russia-Ukraine war.
US Secretary of State<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-russia-war-trump-tired-rubio-says-us-should-move-on-in-days-if-war-not-ending-says-its-not-our-war-8975571" rel="dofollow"> Marco Rubio</a> and presidential envoy Steve Witkoff joined other top Ukrainian and European officials at the French presidential palace - the l'&Eacute;lys&eacute;e&nbsp;Palace. A video from the meeting is doing rounds on the internet, in which Witkoff can be heard comparing the lavish&nbsp;l'&Eacute;lys&eacute;e Palace to Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida. A section of people on social media has called out Witkoff's remark and said that L&rsquo;&Eacute;lys&eacute;e Palace was built in 1718-22 and so it is older than Trump's residence.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/from-the-trump-presidency-to-economic-tariffs-here-are-5-predictions-for-2025-for-the-simpsons-that-came-true-8975567">From the Trump presidency to economic tariffs here are 5 predictions for 2025 for The Simpsons that came true.</a>
In the video, Witkoff can be heard saying, "I was trying to say this actually looks like President Donald Trump's&nbsp;residence in Mar-a-Lago." To this someone said, "So this is copied." Witkoff then said, "This is fabulous...He (Trump) actually works on it himself. He is like an architect."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9mk1jr8-qppta7lp-z26tta2y">
The state of play: Steve Witkoff compares l'&Eacute;lys&eacute;e Palace in Paris to Donald Trump&rsquo;s Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s fabulous what it looks like. He (Trump) actually works on it himself. He&rsquo;s like an architect.&rdquo; <a href="https://t.co/77sHN6VW9d">pic.twitter.com/77sHN6VW9d</a>
&mdash; Jorge Liboreiro (@JorgeLiboreiro) <a href="https://twitter.com/JorgeLiboreiro/status/1912908566790275275?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2025</a></blockquote>
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-students-are-half-of-327-recent-visa-revocation-cases-in-the-us-thousands-affected-by-dhs-ice-crackdown-on-campus-8975782">'Growing fear': Indian students are half of 327 recent visa revocation cases in the US, and that's not even the full picture</a>
French President Emmanuel Macron also spoke to the officials. Macron described the talks as an important &ldquo;convergence.&rdquo; France announced that talks in the same format would continue in London next week. US Secretary of State Rubio wrote on X that the American delegation in Paris was looking to &ldquo;secure real, practical solutions to end the Russia-Ukraine war.&rdquo;
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-dials-tesla-boss-elon-musk-amid-tariff-tensions-says-committed-for-advancing-partnership-with-us-8975418">PM Modi dials Tesla boss Elon Musk amid tariff tensions, says "committed for advancing partnership with US"</a>
Rubio also spoke by phone Thursday with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, conveying the same message he gave the delegations in Paris.&ldquo;President Trump and the United States want this war to end, and have now presented to all parties the outlines of a durable and lasting peace,&rdquo; the statement says. &ldquo;The encouraging reception in Paris to the U.S. framework shows that peace is possible if all parties commit to reaching an agreement.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | A video from the meeting is doing rounds on the internet, in which Steve Witkoff can be heard comparing the lavish l'Élysée Palace to Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida.

France hosted high-level talks on Thursday to discuss Ukraine and its security, the first time. This is the first time since President Donald Trump took over the White House that top American, Ukrainian and European officials have met to discuss an end to the Russia-Ukraine war. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and presidential envoy Steve Witkoff joined other top Ukrainian and European officials at the French presidential palace - the l'Élysée Palace. A video from the meeting is doing rounds on the internet, in which Witkoff can be heard comparing the lavish l'Élysée Palace to Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida. A section of people on social media has called out Witkoff's remark and said that L’Élysée Palace was built in 1718-22 and so it is older than Trump's residence. Read More | From the Trump presidency to economic tariffs here are 5 predictions for 2025 for The Simpsons that came true. In the video, Witkoff can be heard saying, "I was trying to say this actually looks like President Donald Trump's residence in Mar-a-Lago." To this someone said, "So this is copied." Witkoff then said, "This is fabulous...He (Trump) actually works on it himself. He is like an architect." The state of play: Steve Witkoff compares l'Élysée Palace in Paris to Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida. “It’s fabulous what it looks like. He (Trump) actually works on it himself. He’s like an architect.” pic.twitter.com/77sHN6VW9d — Jorge Liboreiro (@JorgeLiboreiro) April 17, 2025 Read More | 'Growing fear': Indian students are half of 327 recent visa revocation cases in the US, and that's not even the full picture French President Emmanuel Macron also spoke to the officials. Macron described the talks as an important “convergence.” France announced that talks in the same format would continue in London next week. US Secretary of State Rubio wrote on X that the American delegation in Paris was looking to “secure real, practical solutions to end the Russia-Ukraine war.” Read More | PM Modi dials Tesla boss Elon Musk amid tariff tensions, says "committed for advancing partnership with US" Rubio also spoke by phone Thursday with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, conveying the same message he gave the delegations in Paris.“President Trump and the United States want this war to end, and have now presented to all parties the outlines of a durable and lasting peace,” the statement says. “The encouraging reception in Paris to the U.S. framework shows that peace is possible if all parties commit to reaching an agreement.” (With inputs from agencies)

Steve Witkoff compares l'Élysée Palace in Paris to Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence, WATCH

US Special Envoy <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-trump-call-possible-says-kremlin-after-russian-leaders-talks-with-us-envoy-witkoff-on-ukraine-8951898" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Steve Witkoff</a> said that his latest meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin focused on a potential peace agreement centred around five disputed regions in Ukraine.
Speaking to Fox News on Monday (April 14), Witkoff described the 11 April meeting in St. Petersburg as &ldquo;compelling&rdquo; and said Putin had shown a willingness to work towards &ldquo;a permanent peace,&rdquo; although, he admitted, &ldquo;it took a while for us to get to&rdquo; that point.
&ldquo;This peace deal is about these so-called five territories,&rdquo; he explained. &ldquo;But there&rsquo;s so much more to it. I think we might be on the verge of something that would be very important for the world at large,&rdquo; he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-trump-call-possible-says-kremlin-after-russian-leaders-talks-with-us-envoy-witkoff-on-ukraine-8951898" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Putin-Trump call &lsquo;possible&rsquo;, says Kremlin after Russian leader&rsquo;s talks with US envoy Witkoff on Ukraine</a>
Witkoff did not specify the territories in question, but he appeared to be referencing Crimea, annexed by Russia in 2014, as well as Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson. Moscow claimed the annexation of these four regions in 2022, although parts of them remain under Ukrainian control.
<h2>Business ties and diplomatic warnings</h2>
Witkoff also hinted at a broader aim behind the talks, suggesting that economic cooperation could help stabilise relations between Russia and the US. &ldquo;I see a possibility of reshaping the Russian-United States relationship through some very compelling commercial opportunities,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;That gives real stability to the region too,&rdquo; he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-started-it-biden-blew-it-zelenskys-incompetent-trump-blames-three-people-for-millions-of-deaths-in-ukraine-war-8962151" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Putin started it, Biden blew it, Zelensky's incompetent&rsquo;: Trump blames 'three people' for millions of deaths in Ukraine war</a>
However, not everyone in Washington supports the direction of this diplomacy. The Wall Street Journal has reported that Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Special Envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg have both urged President Donald Trump not to agree to territorial concessions.
Despite these warnings, Trump is backing Witkoff&rsquo;s approach. According to Reuters, the envoy told the president that recognising Russian control of the four partially occupied regions would be the fastest route to a ceasefire.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-just-got-here-trump-insists-russia-ukraine-war-not-his-war-slams-zelensky-biden-for-absolutely-horrible-job-8961927" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;I just got here&rsquo;: Trump insists Russia-Ukraine War &lsquo;not his war,&rsquo; slams Zelensky, Biden for &lsquo;absolutely horrible job&rsquo;</a>
Witkoff, who has made several trips to Russia this year and now leads Trump&rsquo;s plan to broker a ceasefire, has come under fire for closely aligning with the Kremlin&rsquo;s language, particularly around the issue of territory and the suggestion that peace could be achieved by handing over land.
Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-trump-blames-zelensky-after-sumy-attack-at-least-35-killed-in-sumy-8962838" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Russia-Ukraine war: Trump blames Zelensky after Sumy attack, at least 35 killed in Sumy</a>

World: Witkoff described the meeting in St. Petersburg as “compelling” and said Putin had shown a willingness to work towards “a permanent peace.”

US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff said that his latest meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin focused on a potential peace agreement centred around five disputed regions in Ukraine. Speaking to Fox News on Monday (April 14), Witkoff described the 11 April meeting in St. Petersburg as “compelling” and said Putin had shown a willingness to work towards “a permanent peace,” although, he admitted, “it took a while for us to get to” that point. “This peace deal is about these so-called five territories,” he explained. “But there’s so much more to it. I think we might be on the verge of something that would be very important for the world at large,” he added. Also read: Putin-Trump call ‘possible’, says Kremlin after Russian leader’s talks with US envoy Witkoff on Ukraine Witkoff did not specify the territories in question, but he appeared to be referencing Crimea, annexed by Russia in 2014, as well as Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson. Moscow claimed the annexation of these four regions in 2022, although parts of them remain under Ukrainian control. Business ties and diplomatic warnings Witkoff also hinted at a broader aim behind the talks, suggesting that economic cooperation could help stabilise relations between Russia and the US. “I see a possibility of reshaping the Russian-United States relationship through some very compelling commercial opportunities,” he said. “That gives real stability to the region too,” he added. Also read: ‘Putin started it, Biden blew it, Zelensky's incompetent’: Trump blames 'three people' for millions of deaths in Ukraine war However, not everyone in Washington supports the direction of this diplomacy. The Wall Street Journal has reported that Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Special Envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg have both urged President Donald Trump not to agree to territorial concessions. Despite these warnings, Trump is backing Witkoff’s approach. According to Reuters, the envoy told the president that recognising Russian control of the four partially occupied regions would be the fastest route to a ceasefire. Also read: ‘I just got here’: Trump insists Russia-Ukraine War ‘not his war,’ slams Zelensky, Biden for ‘absolutely horrible job’ Witkoff, who has made several trips to Russia this year and now leads Trump’s plan to broker a ceasefire, has come under fire for closely aligning with the Kremlin’s language, particularly around the issue of territory and the suggestion that peace could be achieved by handing over land. Watch: Russia-Ukraine war: Trump blames Zelensky after Sumy attack, at least 35 killed in Sumy

What does Putin want now? Trump envoy Witkoff says peace deal hinges on '5 territories' and Ukraine may have to give them up

The Kremlin said on Friday that a phone conversation between Russian President Vladimir Putin and former US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/open-to-a-deal-trump-optimistic-about-striking-a-deal-with-china-amid-tariff-row-8952798" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump</a> could take place, following a meeting in St. Petersburg between Trump&rsquo;s special envoy Steve Witkoff and senior Russian officials.
The talks, which focused on the war in Ukraine, were attended by Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov and Kirill Dmitriev, who heads the Russian Direct Investment Fund and serves as the president&rsquo;s representative for foreign investment.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov described the start of the meeting as &ldquo;businesslike&rdquo; and added that a conversation between Putin and Trump is &ldquo;theoretically possible&rdquo; following the discussions.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-wants-to-lock-in-daylight-saving-time-did-you-know-it-was-a-wwi-invention-8952431" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'No more changing of clocks': Trump wants to 'lock in' Daylight Saving Time: Did you know it was a WWI invention?</a>
<h2>Trump: "A senseless war that should never have happened"</h2>
The comments came just hours after Trump repeated his criticism of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, calling it &ldquo;senseless&rdquo; and insisting it would never have started under his leadership.
&ldquo;Russia has to get moving. Too many people were DYING, thousands a week, in a terrible and senseless war - A war that should have never happened, and wouldn&rsquo;t have happened, if I were President!!!&rdquo; Trump posted on Truth Social on Friday (11 April).
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/too-many-people-dying-trump-pushes-russia-for-ceasefire-asks-kremlin-to-get-going-as-thousands-die-in-senseless-war-8952054" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Too many people DYING': Trump pushes Russia for ceasefire, asks Kremlin to 'get going' as thousands die in 'senseless war'</a>
Earlier this week, Trump confirmed that peace talks with Russia were ongoing and stressed the urgent need to end the violence.
&ldquo;We are talking to Russia, we would like them to stop. I don't like them bombing on and on, and every week thousands of young people being killed,&rdquo; he said when asked about the progress of a possible peace deal.
<h2>Third Russian visit for Trump envoy</h2>
This was Witkoff&rsquo;s third trip to Russia, following his last visit on 13 March in Moscow, where he met with high-ranking Russian officials and was received by President Putin.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-tariff-us-republican-president-william-mckinley-8951663" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump's tariff crusade isn't new: Meet his idol who did it first and regretted it</a>
Although Friday&rsquo;s meeting centred on Ukraine, recent talks between US and Russian officials in Istanbul were limited to embassy matters and did not include the conflict.
Trump continues to push for a ceasefire in Ukraine, though his efforts have not yet led to concrete results. A 30-day ceasefire agreement between Washington and Kyiv was reached in March, but Moscow has so far refused full cooperation. Russia has also failed to respect the terms of a limited energy truce agreed after the initial deal.
Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-says-russia-naval-strategic-nuclear-forces-are-fully-equipped-with-modern-weapons-8952576">Putin says Russia naval strategic nuclear forces are fully equipped with modern weapons</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov described the start of the meeting as “businesslike” and added that a conversation between Putin and Trump is “theoretically possible” following the discussions.

The Kremlin said on Friday that a phone conversation between Russian President Vladimir Putin and former US President Donald Trump could take place, following a meeting in St. Petersburg between Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff and senior Russian officials. The talks, which focused on the war in Ukraine, were attended by Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov and Kirill Dmitriev, who heads the Russian Direct Investment Fund and serves as the president’s representative for foreign investment. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov described the start of the meeting as “businesslike” and added that a conversation between Putin and Trump is “theoretically possible” following the discussions. Also read: 'No more changing of clocks': Trump wants to 'lock in' Daylight Saving Time: Did you know it was a WWI invention? Trump: "A senseless war that should never have happened" The comments came just hours after Trump repeated his criticism of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, calling it “senseless” and insisting it would never have started under his leadership. “Russia has to get moving. Too many people were DYING, thousands a week, in a terrible and senseless war - A war that should have never happened, and wouldn’t have happened, if I were President!!!” Trump posted on Truth Social on Friday (11 April). Also read: 'Too many people DYING': Trump pushes Russia for ceasefire, asks Kremlin to 'get going' as thousands die in 'senseless war' Earlier this week, Trump confirmed that peace talks with Russia were ongoing and stressed the urgent need to end the violence. “We are talking to Russia, we would like them to stop. I don't like them bombing on and on, and every week thousands of young people being killed,” he said when asked about the progress of a possible peace deal. Third Russian visit for Trump envoy This was Witkoff’s third trip to Russia, following his last visit on 13 March in Moscow, where he met with high-ranking Russian officials and was received by President Putin. Also read: Donald Trump's tariff crusade isn't new: Meet his idol who did it first and regretted it Although Friday’s meeting centred on Ukraine, recent talks between US and Russian officials in Istanbul were limited to embassy matters and did not include the conflict. Trump continues to push for a ceasefire in Ukraine, though his efforts have not yet led to concrete results. A 30-day ceasefire agreement between Washington and Kyiv was reached in March, but Moscow has so far refused full cooperation. Russia has also failed to respect the terms of a limited energy truce agreed after the initial deal. Watch: Putin says Russia naval strategic nuclear forces are fully equipped with modern weapons (With inputs from agencies)

Putin-Trump call ‘possible’, says Kremlin after Russian leader’s talks with US envoy Witkoff on Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticised continued Russian strikes on his country, saying such attacks remain a "daily reality" even after a partial ceasefire agreement last week.
Speaking ahead of ceasefire discussions due to take place in Saudi Arabia, Zelenskyy highlighted recent deadly incidents, including a drone attack on Kyiv that killed at least three people and a separate strike on Zaporizhzhia, where a family of three lost their lives late Friday.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/difficult-negotiations-ahead-russia-downplays-ukraine-peace-talks-before-us-meeting-8882678">&lsquo;Difficult negotiations&rsquo; ahead: Russia downplays Ukraine peace talks before US meeting</a>
In a post shared on X, Zelensky wrote, &ldquo;These attacks are a daily reality. This week alone, over 1,580 guided aerial bombs, nearly 1,100 strike drones, and 15 missiles of various types were used against our people."
"All of this weaponry contains at least 102,000 foreign components. That&rsquo;s why sanctions against Russian terrorists must be more effective. Every loophole that allows them to bypass the sanctions regime must be eliminated," he added.
"New decisions and new pressure on Moscow are needed to bring an end to these strikes and this war. We must strengthen Ukraine and our army &ndash; with more air defense systems and real support. I thank all partners who understand this and continue to support Ukraine," Zelensky added.
Authorities in Ukraine said Sunday&rsquo;s overnight drone assault on the capital left eight people injured, including a five-year-old child among the dead. Meanwhile, the Russian Defence Ministry claimed to have downed 59 Ukrainian drones across southern regions and Crimea, which Russia illegally annexed in 2014.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-putin-call-underway-white-house-says-talks-going-well-russia-ukraine-war-live-updates-8866815">Trump-Putin call ends after over two hours, White House and Kremlin confirm | Key HIGHLIGHTS</a>
<h2>Trump envoy dismisses Starmer&rsquo;s ceasefire proposal</h2>
In another development, Donald Trump&rsquo;s special envoy Steve Witkoff has rejected UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer&rsquo;s plan to form an international force to enforce a ceasefire in Ukraine, calling it &ldquo;a posture and a pose.&rdquo;
Witkoff said: "I think it's a combination of a posture and a pose and a combination of also being simplistic. Russians are going to march across Europe. That is preposterous by the way. We have something called Nato that we did not have in World War Two."
Speaking in an interview with Tucker Carlson, Witkoff criticised what he described as a &ldquo;simplistic&rdquo; approach from Starmer and European leaders, adding, &ldquo;There is this sort of notion that we have all got to be like Winston Churchill.&rdquo;
Witkoff also offered praise for Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying, &ldquo;I don&rsquo;t regard Putin as a bad guy. He&rsquo;s super smart.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-prayed-for-trump-after-assassination-attempt-says-top-us-envoy-steve-witkoff-8880576">Putin prayed for Trump after assassination attempt, says top US envoy Steve Witkoff</a>
He claimed that Putin had been &ldquo;gracious&rdquo; during their meeting ten days earlier and had even told him he prayed for Trump after last year&rsquo;s assassination attempt. Putin had also gifted Trump a portrait, which Witkoff said &ldquo;clearly touched&rdquo; the former US president.
During the interview, Witkoff echoed multiple Russian narratives, including the claim that Ukraine is &ldquo;a false country.&rdquo; He questioned whether the international community would ever recognise the five occupied regions of Ukraine as part of Russia.
Although leading US negotiations, Witkoff struggled to name the five regions Russia has annexed or partially controls, referring vaguely to &ldquo;these so-called four regions, Donbas, Crimea&hellip; and there are two others.&rdquo;
The five regions are Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, and Crimea. Donbas refers to the industrial area covering much of Luhansk and Donetsk.
Witkoff said, &ldquo;The elephant in the room is, there are constitutional issues within Ukraine as to what they can concede to with regard to giving up territory. The Russians are de facto in control of these territories. The question is: will the world acknowledge that those are Russian territories?&rdquo;
He went on to say, &ldquo;There&rsquo;s a sensibility in Russia that Ukraine is just a false country&hellip; patched together in this sort of mosaic&hellip; and that&rsquo;s what is the root cause, in my opinion, of this war.&rdquo;
The US is due to hold separate meetings with both Russia and Ukraine in Saudi Arabia over Sunday and Monday to discuss the possibility of a ceasefire.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-will-have-to-come-to-the-table-starmers-plan-b-for-ukraine-ceasefire-8857525">'Putin will HAVE to come to the table': Starmer's 'Plan B' for Ukraine ceasefire</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff has rejected UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s plan to form an international force to enforce a ceasefire in Ukraine, calling it “a posture and a pose.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticised continued Russian strikes on his country, saying such attacks remain a "daily reality" even after a partial ceasefire agreement last week. Speaking ahead of ceasefire discussions due to take place in Saudi Arabia, Zelenskyy highlighted recent deadly incidents, including a drone attack on Kyiv that killed at least three people and a separate strike on Zaporizhzhia, where a family of three lost their lives late Friday. Also read: ‘Difficult negotiations’ ahead: Russia downplays Ukraine peace talks before US meeting In a post shared on X, Zelensky wrote, “These attacks are a daily reality. This week alone, over 1,580 guided aerial bombs, nearly 1,100 strike drones, and 15 missiles of various types were used against our people." "All of this weaponry contains at least 102,000 foreign components. That’s why sanctions against Russian terrorists must be more effective. Every loophole that allows them to bypass the sanctions regime must be eliminated," he added. "New decisions and new pressure on Moscow are needed to bring an end to these strikes and this war. We must strengthen Ukraine and our army – with more air defense systems and real support. I thank all partners who understand this and continue to support Ukraine," Zelensky added. Authorities in Ukraine said Sunday’s overnight drone assault on the capital left eight people injured, including a five-year-old child among the dead. Meanwhile, the Russian Defence Ministry claimed to have downed 59 Ukrainian drones across southern regions and Crimea, which Russia illegally annexed in 2014. Also read: Trump-Putin call ends after over two hours, White House and Kremlin confirm | Key HIGHLIGHTS Trump envoy dismisses Starmer’s ceasefire proposal In another development, Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff has rejected UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s plan to form an international force to enforce a ceasefire in Ukraine, calling it “a posture and a pose.” Witkoff said: "I think it's a combination of a posture and a pose and a combination of also being simplistic. Russians are going to march across Europe. That is preposterous by the way. We have something called Nato that we did not have in World War Two." Speaking in an interview with Tucker Carlson, Witkoff criticised what he described as a “simplistic” approach from Starmer and European leaders, adding, “There is this sort of notion that we have all got to be like Winston Churchill.” Witkoff also offered praise for Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying, “I don’t regard Putin as a bad guy. He’s super smart.” Also read: Putin prayed for Trump after assassination attempt, says top US envoy Steve Witkoff He claimed that Putin had been “gracious” during their meeting ten days earlier and had even told him he prayed for Trump after last year’s assassination attempt. Putin had also gifted Trump a portrait, which Witkoff said “clearly touched” the former US president. During the interview, Witkoff echoed multiple Russian narratives, including the claim that Ukraine is “a false country.” He questioned whether the international community would ever recognise the five occupied regions of Ukraine as part of Russia. Although leading US negotiations, Witkoff struggled to name the five regions Russia has annexed or partially controls, referring vaguely to “these so-called four regions, Donbas, Crimea… and there are two others.” The five regions are Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, and Crimea. Donbas refers to the industrial area covering much of Luhansk and Donetsk. Witkoff said, “The elephant in the room is, there are constitutional issues within Ukraine as to what they can concede to with regard to giving up territory. The Russians are de facto in control of these territories. The question is: will the world acknowledge that those are Russian territories?” He went on to say, “There’s a sensibility in Russia that Ukraine is just a false country… patched together in this sort of mosaic… and that’s what is the root cause, in my opinion, of this war.” The US is due to hold separate meetings with both Russia and Ukraine in Saudi Arabia over Sunday and Monday to discuss the possibility of a ceasefire. Also read: 'Putin will HAVE to come to the table': Starmer's 'Plan B' for Ukraine ceasefire (With inputs from agencies)

‘Preposterous’: Trump envoy Witkoff dismisses Starmer’s Ukraine plan as Zelensky urges 'new pressure' on Russia

The 30-day ceasefire deal between Russia and Ukraine has yet to be accepted by Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, the talks leading to the proposed ceasefire deal have excluded Trump's Russia-Ukraine envoy, Keith Kellogg. U.S. President Trump has limited Kellogg's role to special envoy to Ukraine, rather than special envoy to Russia and Ukraine. 

According to reports, President Trump sidelined Kellogg from peace talks in Jeddah and Riyadh after Russia demanded his exclusion, citing bias toward Ukraine. Reports also suggest that Kellogg did not attend the U.S.-Russia summit in Riyadh at the request of Russian President Vladimir Putin. In Kellogg's absence, Trump's West Asia envoy, Steve Witkoff took the lead. Witkoff had presented the ceasefire proposal to Vladimir Putin in Moscow. The Russian president accepted the U.S. proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine but emphasized that the terms are yet to be finalized.. Watch to know more!

Trump demotes Kellogg to Ukraine envoy; Kellogg sidelined on Putin's request, says reports

US President Donald Trump has criticised media outlets for allegedly spreading false claims that Russian President Vladimir Putin kept US special envoy Steve Witkoff waiting for over nine hours. Trump insisted that no such delay occurred.
Taking to Truth Social on Saturday (15 March), Trump accused the media of dishonesty, saying, "The Fake News, as usual, is at it again! Why can&rsquo;t they be honest, just for once? Last night I read that President Vladimir Putin of Russia kept my Highly Respected Ambassador and Special Envoy, Steve Witkoff, waiting for over nine hours when, in fact, there was no wait whatsoever."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-revive-his-travel-ban-43-nations-on-the-chopping-block-including-russia-and-iran-8856103">Trump to revive his travel ban: 43 nations on the chopping block, including Russia and Iran</a>
He acknowledged that other meetings with Russian representatives had taken place and lasted some time but described them as "very productive."
"From there, things went quickly and efficiently, and all signs seem to be, hopefully, very good! In conclusion, there was no nine-hour wait, or any wait at all! The only reason they made up that story is to try and DEMEAN, because they are sick degenerates, that have to start reporting the News correctly. This is why they have lost their ratings, their audience, and respect. Thank you for your attention to this matter and, GOD BLESS AMERICA!" he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-expels-south-african-ambassador-ebrahim-rasool-accuses-him-of-hating-america-and-trump-8855466">US expels South African ambassador Ebrahim Rasool, accuses him of hating America and Trump</a>
<h2>Trump condemns media, calls for action</h2>
A day earlier, on Friday (14 March), Trump took aim at major news networks during a speech at the Department of Justice, suggesting their reporting should be considered illegal and investigated.
&ldquo;I believe that CNN and MS-DNC, who literally write 97.6% bad about me, are political arms of the Democrat [sic] party and in my opinion, they&rsquo;re really corrupt and they&rsquo;re illegal, what they do is illegal,&rdquo; he claimed.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-is-lying-to-everyone-zelensky-demands-strong-pressure-on-russia-blasts-moscows-delaying-tactics-8856653">&lsquo;Putin is lying to everyone&rsquo;: Zelensky demands &lsquo;strong pressure&rsquo; on Russia, blasts Moscow&rsquo;s &lsquo;delaying tactics&rsquo;</a>
He went on to compare news organisations to political operatives, arguing that their actions should not be permitted.
&ldquo;These networks and these newspapers are really no different than a highly paid political operative,&rdquo; Trump said, labelling CNN and MSNBC as "corrupt."
&ldquo;And it has to stop, it has to be illegal, it&rsquo;s influencing judges and it&rsquo;s really changing law, and it just cannot be legal. I don&rsquo;t believe it&rsquo;s legal, and they do it in total coordination with each other,&rdquo; he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-coalition-of-the-willing-uk-keir-starmer-france-emmanuel-macron-nato-unite-to-push-russia-into-ceasefire-as-putin-stalls-8856438">'Will build Ukraine&rsquo;s own defences': UK, France, NATO unite to push Russia into ceasefire as Putin 'stalls'</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Taking to Truth Social on Saturday (15 March), Trump accused the media of dishonesty, saying, "The Fake News, as usual, is at it again! Why can’t they be honest, just for once?"

US President Donald Trump has criticised media outlets for allegedly spreading false claims that Russian President Vladimir Putin kept US special envoy Steve Witkoff waiting for over nine hours. Trump insisted that no such delay occurred. Taking to Truth Social on Saturday (15 March), Trump accused the media of dishonesty, saying, "The Fake News, as usual, is at it again! Why can’t they be honest, just for once? Last night I read that President Vladimir Putin of Russia kept my Highly Respected Ambassador and Special Envoy, Steve Witkoff, waiting for over nine hours when, in fact, there was no wait whatsoever." Also read: Trump to revive his travel ban: 43 nations on the chopping block, including Russia and Iran He acknowledged that other meetings with Russian representatives had taken place and lasted some time but described them as "very productive." "From there, things went quickly and efficiently, and all signs seem to be, hopefully, very good! In conclusion, there was no nine-hour wait, or any wait at all! The only reason they made up that story is to try and DEMEAN, because they are sick degenerates, that have to start reporting the News correctly. This is why they have lost their ratings, their audience, and respect. Thank you for your attention to this matter and, GOD BLESS AMERICA!" he added. Also read: US expels South African ambassador Ebrahim Rasool, accuses him of hating America and Trump Trump condemns media, calls for action A day earlier, on Friday (14 March), Trump took aim at major news networks during a speech at the Department of Justice, suggesting their reporting should be considered illegal and investigated. “I believe that CNN and MS-DNC, who literally write 97.6% bad about me, are political arms of the Democrat [sic] party and in my opinion, they’re really corrupt and they’re illegal, what they do is illegal,” he claimed. Also read: ‘Putin is lying to everyone’: Zelensky demands ‘strong pressure’ on Russia, blasts Moscow’s ‘delaying tactics’ He went on to compare news organisations to political operatives, arguing that their actions should not be permitted. “These networks and these newspapers are really no different than a highly paid political operative,” Trump said, labelling CNN and MSNBC as "corrupt." “And it has to stop, it has to be illegal, it’s influencing judges and it’s really changing law, and it just cannot be legal. I don’t believe it’s legal, and they do it in total coordination with each other,” he added. Also read: 'Will build Ukraine’s own defences': UK, France, NATO unite to push Russia into ceasefire as Putin 'stalls' (With inputs from agencies)

‘Sick degenerates’: Trump slams ‘fake news’ over claim Putin made US envoy Witkoff wait 9 hours

The White House on Friday (March 14) accused the Palestinian militant group Hamas of making "entirely impractical" demands and delaying the deal to release a US-Israeli hostage in exchange for Gaza ceasefire extension.&nbsp;
US special envoy to the Mideast Steve Witkoff publicly talked about the "bridge proposal", which he presented in Qatar on Wednesday to extend the first phase of the ceasefire to mid-April if Hamas releases living hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
&ldquo;Hamas is making a very bad bet that time is on its side. It is not,&rdquo; a statement from the office of Witkoff and the US National Security Council read.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/manipulation-psychological-warfare-netanyahu-slams-hamas-for-rejecting-witkoff-proposal-8853836">'Manipulation, psychological warfare': Netanyahu slams Hamas for rejecting 'Witkoff proposal'</a>
"Hamas is well aware of the deadline, and should know that we will respond accordingly if that deadline passes," he added.&nbsp;
The statement reiterated that Hamas would "pay a severe price" for not freeing hostages.
"Hamas was told in no uncertain terms that this 'bridge' would have to be implemented soon -- and that dual US-Israeli citizen Edan Alexander would have to be released immediately," the statement said.
"Unfortunately, Hamas has chosen to respond by publicly claiming flexibility while privately making demands that are entirely impractical without a permanent ceasefire," it added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-welcomes-trumps-withdrawal-from-plans-to-displace-palestinians-in-gaza-8851344">Hamas welcomes Trump&rsquo;s withdrawal from plans to relocate Palestinians</a>
Earlier in the day, Hamas said that it was ready to free an Israeli-American hostage and the remains of four others, after the Palestinian militants and Israel resumed indirect Gaza ceasefire negotiations.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office blasted Hamas for rejecting what they call the 'Witkoff proposal'.&nbsp;
&ldquo;While Israel has accepted the Witkoff proposal,&rdquo; the Prime Minister&rsquo;s Office said, &ldquo;Hamas remains firm in its refusal and has not budged one millimeter.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-surprised-after-trump-official-says-us-working-for-itself-says-hamas-militants-pretty-nice-guys-8837672">&lsquo;Hamas militants are pretty nice guys&rsquo;: US &lsquo;surprises&rsquo; Israel after envoy says Washington working for itself</a>
Further, the PMO accused Hamas of engaging in manipulation and psychological warfare.&rdquo;
Netanyahu is scheduled to convene top aides and senior ministers on Saturday night to hear a briefing from Israel's negotiators, saying that his office will decide on the next moves.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/great-cars-netanyahu-to-buy-electric-cars-from-elon-musks-tesla-for-israeli-officials-8852513">'Great cars': Netanyahu to buy electric cars from Elon Musk's Tesla for Israeli officials</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: “Hamas is making a very bad bet that time is on its side. It is not,” a statement from the office of Witkoff and the US National Security Council read.

The White House on Friday (March 14) accused the Palestinian militant group Hamas of making "entirely impractical" demands and delaying the deal to release a US-Israeli hostage in exchange for Gaza ceasefire extension. US special envoy to the Mideast Steve Witkoff publicly talked about the "bridge proposal", which he presented in Qatar on Wednesday to extend the first phase of the ceasefire to mid-April if Hamas releases living hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. “Hamas is making a very bad bet that time is on its side. It is not,” a statement from the office of Witkoff and the US National Security Council read. Also read: 'Manipulation, psychological warfare': Netanyahu slams Hamas for rejecting 'Witkoff proposal' "Hamas is well aware of the deadline, and should know that we will respond accordingly if that deadline passes," he added. The statement reiterated that Hamas would "pay a severe price" for not freeing hostages. "Hamas was told in no uncertain terms that this 'bridge' would have to be implemented soon -- and that dual US-Israeli citizen Edan Alexander would have to be released immediately," the statement said. "Unfortunately, Hamas has chosen to respond by publicly claiming flexibility while privately making demands that are entirely impractical without a permanent ceasefire," it added. Also read: Hamas welcomes Trump’s withdrawal from plans to relocate Palestinians Earlier in the day, Hamas said that it was ready to free an Israeli-American hostage and the remains of four others, after the Palestinian militants and Israel resumed indirect Gaza ceasefire negotiations. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office blasted Hamas for rejecting what they call the 'Witkoff proposal'. “While Israel has accepted the Witkoff proposal,” the Prime Minister’s Office said, “Hamas remains firm in its refusal and has not budged one millimeter.” Also read: ‘Hamas militants are pretty nice guys’: US ‘surprises’ Israel after envoy says Washington working for itself Further, the PMO accused Hamas of engaging in manipulation and psychological warfare.” Netanyahu is scheduled to convene top aides and senior ministers on Saturday night to hear a briefing from Israel's negotiators, saying that his office will decide on the next moves. Also read: 'Great cars': Netanyahu to buy electric cars from Elon Musk's Tesla for Israeli officials (With inputs from agencies)

'Will respond accordingly': White House accuses Hamas of making 'very bad bet' on Gaza talks

Almost an hour after US President Donald Trump shared a post saying he "urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to spare lives", the White House clarified that US envoy Steve Witkoff spoke with Putin and not Trump.&nbsp;
The confusion began as Trump took to his Truth Social on Friday, praising his talks with the Russian president.&nbsp;
Trump said, "I have strongly requested to President Putin that their lives be spared."
The US president in his post also stressed, "We had very good and productive discussions with President Vladimir Putin of Russia yesterday, and there is a very good chance that this horrible, bloody war can finally come to an end &mdash; BUT, AT THIS VERY MOMENT, THOUSANDS OF UKRAINIAN TROOPS ARE COMPLETELY SURROUNDED BY THE RUSSIAN MILITARY, AND IN A VERY BAD AND VULNERABLE POSITION."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-confirms-call-with-russian-president-putin-says-he-pleaded-with-russian-prez-to-spare-lives-8853917">&lsquo;Horrible, bloody war can finally end&rsquo;: Trump pleads with Putin to spare Ukrainian lives</a>
<iframe width="600" height="" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0;" src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/114161039436456514/embed" class="truthsocial-embed" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script>

<h2>Ukraine denies claims of troops in Kursk</h2>
As Trump in his post also said that the thousands of Ukrainian troops are completely surrounded by the Russian military, Ukraine officials denied the claims, reported Reuters.&nbsp;
They said that the reports about Ukrainian troops being encircled in Russia&rsquo;s Kursk region are false, and there is &ldquo;no threat&rdquo; of encirclement, as their troops were pulled back to more &ldquo;favourable&rdquo; positions.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cannot-confirm-this-at-all-russia-shrugs-off-claims-it-sidelined-trumps-ukraine-envoy-from-ceasefire-talks-8853668">'Can't confirm this at&nbsp;all': Russia shrugs off claims about sidelining Trump&rsquo;s Ukraine envoy from&nbsp;ceasefire&nbsp;talks</a>
Steve Witkoff met with Russian President Putin on Thursday and reportedly left Moscow in the early hours of Friday.&nbsp;
This comes as Ukraine agreed to the US-proposed 30-day ceasefire during their talks in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;
However, Russia has not formally accepted the deal to pause fighting.&nbsp;
&ldquo;There will only be two options: surrender or die,&rdquo; Putin said at a press conference on Thursday, adding that Ukrainian troops captured in Kursk would be treated as &ldquo;terrorists.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tesla-likely-to-get-affected-by-trumps-retaliatory-tariffs-amid-trade-war-says-could-harm-ev-companies-8853564">'Should not harm EV companies': Musk's Tesla raises concern as it might get affected by Trump's retaliatory tariffs</a>
Moreover, Russian and US officials will also organise a meeting between Trump and Putin after Witkoff relays the Russian president's response to a proposed ceasefire.&nbsp;
&ldquo;When Mr. Witkoff presents all the information to President Trump, we will determine the timing of a conversation [between Trump and Putin],&rdquo; Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. &ldquo;There are reasons to be cautiously optimistic.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/whats-in-trumps-ukraine-ceasefire-deal-and-why-russian-president-putin-rejected-it-8852846">What&rsquo;s in Trump's Ukraine ceasefire deal and why Russian President Putin rejected it?</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: As Trump in his post also said that the thousands of Ukrainian troops are completely surrounded by the Russian military, Ukraine officials denied the claims.

Almost an hour after US President Donald Trump shared a post saying he "urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to spare lives", the White House clarified that US envoy Steve Witkoff spoke with Putin and not Trump. The confusion began as Trump took to his Truth Social on Friday, praising his talks with the Russian president. Trump said, "I have strongly requested to President Putin that their lives be spared." The US president in his post also stressed, "We had very good and productive discussions with President Vladimir Putin of Russia yesterday, and there is a very good chance that this horrible, bloody war can finally come to an end — BUT, AT THIS VERY MOMENT, THOUSANDS OF UKRAINIAN TROOPS ARE COMPLETELY SURROUNDED BY THE RUSSIAN MILITARY, AND IN A VERY BAD AND VULNERABLE POSITION." Also read: ‘Horrible, bloody war can finally end’: Trump pleads with Putin to spare Ukrainian lives Ukraine denies claims of troops in Kursk As Trump in his post also said that the thousands of Ukrainian troops are completely surrounded by the Russian military, Ukraine officials denied the claims, reported Reuters. They said that the reports about Ukrainian troops being encircled in Russia’s Kursk region are false, and there is “no threat” of encirclement, as their troops were pulled back to more “favourable” positions. Also read: 'Can't confirm this at all': Russia shrugs off claims about sidelining Trump’s Ukraine envoy from ceasefire talks Steve Witkoff met with Russian President Putin on Thursday and reportedly left Moscow in the early hours of Friday. This comes as Ukraine agreed to the US-proposed 30-day ceasefire during their talks in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. However, Russia has not formally accepted the deal to pause fighting. “There will only be two options: surrender or die,” Putin said at a press conference on Thursday, adding that Ukrainian troops captured in Kursk would be treated as “terrorists.” Also read: 'Should not harm EV companies': Musk's Tesla raises concern as it might get affected by Trump's retaliatory tariffs Moreover, Russian and US officials will also organise a meeting between Trump and Putin after Witkoff relays the Russian president's response to a proposed ceasefire. “When Mr. Witkoff presents all the information to President Trump, we will determine the timing of a conversation [between Trump and Putin],” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. “There are reasons to be cautiously optimistic.” Also read: What’s in Trump's Ukraine ceasefire deal and why Russian President Putin rejected it? (With inputs from agencies)

US envoy Witkoff spoke to Putin, not Trump, White House clarifies after US president's post triggers confusion

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office blasted the Palestinian militant group Hamas for rejecting what they call the 'Witkoff proposal'.&nbsp;
This comes after Hamas said that they agreed to a proposal to release hostage soldier Edan Alexander, a US citizen, and the bodies of four other slain captives who are dual nationals.&nbsp;
US special envoy Steve Witkoff proposed the 'Witkoff outline', which would see half of the hostages released immediately, a ceasefire through the end of Passover, and a possible release of all the other hostages if an agreement is reached on ending the war.
&ldquo;While Israel has accepted the Witkoff proposal,&rdquo; the Prime Minister&rsquo;s Office said, &ldquo;Hamas remains firm in its refusal and has not budged one millimeter.&rdquo;
Further, the PMO accused Hamas of engaging in manipulation and psychological warfare.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-welcomes-trumps-withdrawal-from-plans-to-displace-palestinians-in-gaza-8851344">Hamas welcomes Trump&rsquo;s withdrawal from plans to relocate Palestinians</a>
However, Hamas on the contrary, has chosen to adopt a proposal presented by US hostage envoy Adam Boehler during their direct talks last week, Channel 12 reported.&nbsp;
Even after the Palestinian militant group announced to release US-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander and return the bodies of four slain dual nations, neither Alexander&rsquo;s family nor the families of the unnamed slain hostages have been notified of anything new.
Moreover, Netanyahu will convene top aides and senior ministers on Saturday night to hear a briefing from Israel's negotiators, saying that his office will decide on the next moves.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rubio-says-us-hostage-envoys-direct-meeting-with-hamas-hasnt-borne-fruit-8841077">Rubio says US hostage envoy&rsquo;s direct meeting with Hamas &lsquo;hasn&rsquo;t borne fruit&rsquo;</a>
<h2>Hostage forum slams Netanyahu</h2>
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum criticised Netanyahu after his office said that Israel's hostage talks delegation will return from Doha later today, but will not meet him and his senior officials until Saturday night.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The families of the hostages apologize for disturbing you on Shabbat, but their loved ones do not have time to wait!&rdquo; the forum said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-confirms-multiple-meetings-with-us-on-gaza-ceasefire-deal-8836747">Hamas confirms multiple meetings with US on Gaza ceasefire deal</a>
&ldquo;Twenty-four hours in captivity is 24 hours of hell, torment and abuse, it is 24 hours of danger of death and disappearance,&rdquo; it said, urging the ministers to convene sooner than tomorrow night.
&ldquo;For the hostages and their families, there is no Shabbat and no holidays,&rdquo; it added. &ldquo;Return all 59 hostages immediately, and in one fell swoop!&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-surprised-after-trump-official-says-us-working-for-itself-says-hamas-militants-pretty-nice-guys-8837672">&lsquo;Hamas militants are pretty nice guys&rsquo;: US &lsquo;surprises&rsquo; Israel after envoy says Washington working for itself</a>&nbsp;
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Hamas on the contrary, has chosen to adopt a proposal presented by US hostage envoy Adam Boehler during their direct talks last week, Channel 12 reported.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office blasted the Palestinian militant group Hamas for rejecting what they call the 'Witkoff proposal'. This comes after Hamas said that they agreed to a proposal to release hostage soldier Edan Alexander, a US citizen, and the bodies of four other slain captives who are dual nationals. US special envoy Steve Witkoff proposed the 'Witkoff outline', which would see half of the hostages released immediately, a ceasefire through the end of Passover, and a possible release of all the other hostages if an agreement is reached on ending the war. “While Israel has accepted the Witkoff proposal,” the Prime Minister’s Office said, “Hamas remains firm in its refusal and has not budged one millimeter.” Further, the PMO accused Hamas of engaging in manipulation and psychological warfare.” Also read: Hamas welcomes Trump’s withdrawal from plans to relocate Palestinians However, Hamas on the contrary, has chosen to adopt a proposal presented by US hostage envoy Adam Boehler during their direct talks last week, Channel 12 reported. Even after the Palestinian militant group announced to release US-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander and return the bodies of four slain dual nations, neither Alexander’s family nor the families of the unnamed slain hostages have been notified of anything new. Moreover, Netanyahu will convene top aides and senior ministers on Saturday night to hear a briefing from Israel's negotiators, saying that his office will decide on the next moves. Also read: Rubio says US hostage envoy’s direct meeting with Hamas ‘hasn’t borne fruit’ Hostage forum slams Netanyahu The Hostages and Missing Families Forum criticised Netanyahu after his office said that Israel's hostage talks delegation will return from Doha later today, but will not meet him and his senior officials until Saturday night. “The families of the hostages apologize for disturbing you on Shabbat, but their loved ones do not have time to wait!” the forum said. Also read: Hamas confirms multiple meetings with US on Gaza ceasefire deal “Twenty-four hours in captivity is 24 hours of hell, torment and abuse, it is 24 hours of danger of death and disappearance,” it said, urging the ministers to convene sooner than tomorrow night. “For the hostages and their families, there is no Shabbat and no holidays,” it added. “Return all 59 hostages immediately, and in one fell swoop!” Also read: ‘Hamas militants are pretty nice guys’: US ‘surprises’ Israel after envoy says Washington working for itself Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

'Manipulation, psychological warfare': Netanyahu slams Hamas for rejecting 'Witkoff proposal'

Social media have been circulating claims about a visit to Russia by Steve Witkoff, President Donald Trump’s special envoy for the Middle East. However, Russian Presidential Spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that the Kremlin had no information on this matter. Watch this report for more details!

Kremlin: No contact with US Envoy Witkoff

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