Yuri Ushakov, the aide to the Russian president, confirmed to the media on the 3rd that Russia and the United States have discussed the core issue of Ukraine joining NATO.
He also pointed out that the progress made by Russian forces on the frontlines in recent weeks has made the West's assessment of the situation "more appropriate," which has had a positive impact on the current Russia-U.S. talks.
He said: "The United States is willing to do everything possible to reach a long-term solution, which in fact coincides with our goal."
Ushakov stated that currently, Russia has only held talks with the United States on the Ukraine issue. Russia does not have a negative attitude towards contacts with Europe, but Europe has refused to cooperate.
On the 2nd, Putin and U.S. Middle East Envoy Whitkoff held talks at the Kremlin on the situation in Ukraine.