Witkoff's Diplomatic Dance: U.S. Envoy Meets Putin in Moscow

In a pivotal diplomatic encounter, U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow for three hours on Wednesday, according to a White House official.

The meeting was part of a last-ditch effort to find a resolution to the 3-1/2-year conflict initiated by Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Despite ongoing tensions, Washington has expressed a willingness to maintain dialogue.

However, the U.S. intends to proceed with secondary sanctions against Russia on Friday, unless significant steps are taken to resolve the war. This dual approach highlights the continued pressure on Russia while keeping diplomatic channels open.

(With inputs from agencies.)