What happened during Witkoff and Kushner’s latest meeting with Putin

U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff is in St. Petersburg to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the war in Ukraine. This follows "positive" talks Witkoff held with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Norway, which were also attended by the prime ministers of Norway and Finland, as well as representatives from the EU and NATO. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Witkoff would share ideas from the Zelenskyy meeting with the Russian side to seek progress. U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed frustration with Zelenskyy and suggested alternative negotiators. Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law, also virtually attended the talks with Zelenskyy and is expected to do so remotely for the meeting with Putin. Following the talks in Oslo, Zelenskyy reported that crucial U.S. intelligence sharing had been restored.

Russia has indicated its readiness to resume talks with the US and Ukraine aimed at ending the conflict. This announcement followed a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff in St Petersburg. Yuri Ushakov, Putin's top aide, stated that a new round of talks could potentially take place around November 10th in Abu Dhabi, focusing on establishing a post-conflict security system for both Russia and Ukraine. A US official confirmed that a trilateral meeting at a technical level between the US, Russia, and Ukraine was proposed by Witkoff and Jared Kushner in Oslo and accepted by both Ukraine and Russia. The talks occurred amidst ongoing disputes between Ukraine and the US regarding security guarantees and intelligence sharing. Additionally, Russia released American citizen Stephen Hubbard, who had been imprisoned for allegedly fighting for Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin met with US special envoy Steve Witkoff in St. Petersburg on Wednesday to discuss potential peace initiatives for the war in Ukraine. This meeting, the ninth between the two, was preceded by Russia's release of a retired American teacher held in the country. The talks occurred as Washington intensifies efforts to end the conflict. The article notes concerns from Kyiv and its allies regarding these developments.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated he is open to freezing the front lines in the war with Russia as a potential path to ending the conflict. Speaking on "Fox & Friends," Zelenskyy indicated a ceasefire, or "stop killing," would be the minimum requirement from Russia, followed by seeking security guarantees from European partners and the U.S. He emphasized the need for displaced Ukrainians to return and rebuild their country. This statement comes as Russia has previously rejected ceasefire deals, citing concerns about Ukraine rearming. The article also notes that former U.S. President Donald Trump secured the release of an American teacher imprisoned in Russia on mercenary charges, and Russian President Vladimir Putin has agreed in principle to resume trilateral negotiations with the U.S. and Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the release of American Stephen Hubbard from a Russian jail during a meeting with Donald Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, in St. Petersburg. Hubbard, a 74-year-old former teacher, had been held for over four years on mercenary charges. Trump had previously requested Hubbard's release directly from Putin. Witkoff praised Putin as a "humanitarian" and presented him with ideas for a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine. The release occurred amidst discussions on ending the war in Ukraine and follows a controversial deal for Russian diesel exports to the US. Witkoff's visit aimed to inject momentum into stalled negotiations, though prospects for an imminent breakthrough remain uncertain.

Former US President Donald Trump stated that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky should find someone else to negotiate an end to the war with Russia. Trump previously suggested Ukraine replace Zelensky. He also commented that Russia has been "fine" regarding Ukraine, claiming they "haven't been doing much." The article also notes that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio denied claims that Washington is restricting intelligence sharing on Russian attacks with Kyiv, stating there has been "no pause." Rubio made these remarks in Uzbekistan after Zelensky criticized allies for not providing advance warnings of Russian missile strikes.

US President Donald Trump has suspended several sanctions on Russia, stating his intention is to keep peace negotiations regarding the war in Ukraine ongoing. Trump announced on his Truth Social platform that he did not want to "foolishly drive Russia away from the bargaining table" and is actively negotiating peace. This decision, made on Friday night, comes amid a deepening disagreement with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who called siding with Russian President Vladimir Putin a "historic mistake." A Russian envoy, Kirill Dmitriev, described Trump's order as a "historic moment," suggesting the sanctions would have caused "serious damage" to the US and global markets. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio characterized the suspension as a 60-day pause for economic impact analysis. Trump also suggested Zelensky "doesn't want to end this war" and could have secured a better deal previously.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine did not receive advance warning from the US regarding a Russian missile attack on Kyiv's power plants on Sunday evening. This follows reports from a Ukrainian Air Force spokesperson and a government official confirming the lack of warning. Zelenskyy suggested this withholding of intelligence, alongside delays in air defense missile supplies and a US waiver of sanctions on Russia, indicates a "denial of reality" from partners. The US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, mentioned a possible software problem with Ukraine's early warning system, though US officials had not previously cited this. Ukraine has previously complained of not being warned before missile launches, amid public disagreements with former President Donald Trump, who is reportedly seeking to negotiate peace.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio denied any suspension of intelligence sharing with Ukraine, stating there has been no pause. This comes after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Washington had resumed providing critical intelligence to help Kyiv defend against Russian missile strikes, which had previously occurred without warning. Ukraine relies on US intelligence through the Starshield system to detect Russian ballistic missiles. Zelenskyy also expressed concern that US decisions, such as waiving sanctions on Russia, would hurt Ukraine. President Trump defended his actions, stating he is negotiating peace and believes Zelenskyy does not want the war to end. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent called Zelenskyy's claims about the US government slowing satellite communications "reckless."

A Ukrainian presidential adviser, Serhii Beskrestnov, told the BBC that restrictions on US intelligence sharing are leading to Ukrainian deaths by limiting timely warnings of missile attacks. He suggested this, along with potential Starlink access issues, might be a deliberate US tactic to pressure Ukraine into negotiations with Russia. Beskrestnov stated that Ukraine is seeking alternative communication systems due to uncertainty about Starlink's future availability. However, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio denied any "pause" in intelligence sharing, expressing confusion over the adviser's claims. The article notes that Elon Musk indicated the US government controls Starshield access, and Trump has denied involvement in any restrictions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner on Sunday. During the meeting, Zelensky stated that "a lot depends on America." This occurred as Zelensky had previously cautioned Washington against siding with Moscow in the ongoing conflict. The discussions took place while both Russia and Ukraine were targeting each other's energy infrastructure. Russia's actions resulted in thousands losing power, and Ukraine launched a significant drone attack on St. Petersburg.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the war with Russia "must be brought to an end" and that Ukraine is preparing for diplomatic efforts to achieve this. He reported ongoing, "virtually nonstop" communication with US counterparts, including envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, emphasizing the significant role of the US position. This comes despite a diplomatic spat with former US President Donald Trump, who waived expected sanctions on Russia's energy sector and criticized Ukrainian strikes on energy infrastructure. Zelenskyy also expressed gratitude for the US resuming intelligence sharing, which had been paused, leaving Ukraine vulnerable to ballistic missile attacks. Ukraine has also reported limitations on its Starshield satellite service, hindering its ability to intercept Russian drones.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Ukraine currently does not have access to Starshield, the military-grade version of SpaceX's Starlink satellite service. Ukraine has requested access to Starshield to conduct deep strikes inside Russia, and this request is currently under discussion. Rubio clarified that Starshield is a defense product for government partners, distinct from the commercial Starlink service. He also denied that any recent disruptions to Starlink services in Ukraine were deliberate or related to US actions. The article notes that Ukrainian officials have reported restrictions on Starlink terminals impacting drone operations.

Russia has conducted a new wave of strikes across Ukraine, resulting in civilian casualties. The attacks have killed at least eight people and injured nearly 60 others. The specific locations and timing of these strikes are not detailed in the provided content, but the impact is described as widespread across Ukraine. The article states that these are the latest in a series of Russian strikes.

Kyiv and European leaders remain dependent on US support despite growing tensions with Russia and President Trump. Recent events, including a reported diesel deal with Russia and temporary Starlink disruptions, have widened a rift between Ukraine and the US. Despite these issues, the US continues to share intelligence and Europe funds US weapons for Ukraine, while Kyiv and Europe engage with Trump's diplomatic overtures to Moscow. Ukraine faces escalating Russian attacks and a parallel propaganda war, while European nations grapple with the financial burden of supporting Ukraine and upcoming elections. The article highlights the complex geopolitical landscape and the continued, albeit strained, reliance on US backing for Ukraine.

Former US President Donald Trump has denied limiting Ukraine's access to Starshield, a military-grade internet service. This denial comes after Ukraine reported speed restrictions on the network, which hampered its defenses against Russian attacks on Tuesday night. While Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated speeds had not been restored, Elon Musk suggested the US government might be responsible for the curbs. Reuters reported the order originated from the White House. The restrictions occurred amid tensions between Washington and Kyiv over Ukraine's targeting of Russian oil refineries, a move criticized by Trump.

Ukraine has advanced in the Donetsk region, reclaiming approximately 100 square kilometers of territory as part of "Operation Vivaldi." This progress occurred during a week marked by strained US-Ukraine relations, with President Trump lifting some oil sanctions against Russia and reportedly restricting Ukraine's access to US intelligence and satellite services. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy expressed disappointment, stating it was painful when the US "chooses one side, not our side." Russia launched significant drone and missile attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, coinciding with restrictions on Ukraine's use of SpaceX's Starlink satellite navigation services, which impacted its ability to intercept high-speed drones. Elon Musk indicated that US military decisions ultimately control Starshield service limitations. Despite these disruptions, Ukraine's counteroffensives have continued to regain ground and hinder Russian advances.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the military's access to Starlink satellite internet has not been fully restored, calling a reported White House order to throttle the service a "dangerous and unpleasant surprise." Media reports suggest the decision to slow Starshield, the military version of Starlink, originated within the White House. This comes as Zelenskyy met with European leaders in Brussels to request an additional €70 billion for Ukraine's defense next year. He also addressed concerns about potential financial shortfalls and discussed alternatives for utilizing frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine.

Russia is systematically targeting Ukraine's power plants with missiles and drones, aiming to degrade the quality of life for Ukrainians and force capitulation. Recent strikes on power plants and substations in Kyiv and Kharkiv have caused rolling blackouts and water outages, resembling a previously intercepted Russian blueprint. This strategy, reportedly developed by Russian military or intelligence agencies, aims to create humanitarian crises by destroying energy infrastructure, potentially leading to prolonged blackouts and deterioration of sanitary conditions. Ukraine's energy minister has briefed European allies on this plan, which involves specific weapon requirements to disable key energy facilities. The attacks coincide with political disputes between Washington and Kyiv, and Ukraine's energy system is reportedly outgunned.

Former US President Donald Trump has intensified his criticism of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, calling him "more difficult to deal with than Putin." Trump expressed frustration with Ukraine's strikes on Russian oil refineries, stating they increase global oil prices, particularly as the US recently agreed to import Russian diesel. This US deal had previously angered Zelensky, who viewed it as a benefit to Putin. Zelensky's concerns were further amplified by restrictions on the Starlink internet network, crucial for Ukraine's defense, which coincided with deadly Russian strikes. The Trump administration had previously threatened to withhold intelligence sharing if Ukraine continued targeting Russian oil facilities.

Donald Trump has criticized Ukraine's resumption of strikes on Russian oil refineries as a "disgrace," stating it raises global oil prices. This action followed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's decision to abandon a ceasefire Trump had declared, which neither Russia nor Ukraine had agreed to. Trump reiterated his view that Zelenskyy is more difficult to deal with than Putin. Relations between Kyiv and Washington have been strained, with recent disruptions to Starlink services impacting Ukrainian drone missions. European leaders, however, have reaffirmed their support for Zelenskyy amidst doubts about long-term US commitment.

Ukrainian forces have liberated 277 square kilometers in the eastern Donbas region as part of Operation Vivaldi. This offensive relies heavily on digital connectivity, with Elon Musk's Starshield, the military version of Starlink, playing a key role in providing broadband for drones and other battlefield operations. However, Ukraine has expressed significant concern after experiencing unexplained restrictions on Starshield, which they believe may have originated from the White House. While not entirely dependent on the system, Starshield is vital for Ukraine's drone capabilities, and the sudden limitations have impacted their operations. The conflict also involves unmanned ground vehicles for logistics and combat, underscoring the importance of digital infrastructure in modern warfare.

Ukrainian President Zelensky has announced that Ukraine will resume strikes on Russian oil refineries following recent Russian attacks. This statement comes after Russia reported a Ukrainian strike on an oil refinery on Thursday. Zelensky criticized a recent US-brokered deal between Russia and the US to release diesel to the global market, viewing it as the US investing in Russia's war effort. He suggested that disruptions to US support, such as speed limits on Starlink, are not coincidental given Russia's ongoing attacks. Zelensky indicated that future deals involving Russian energy, like gas, are possible.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced Kyiv is ending an "energy ceasefire" and will resume strikes on Russian oil refineries. Russia's defense ministry reported that Ukraine targeted an oil refinery in Ryazan, approximately 180 kilometers south of Moscow, resulting in a fire from drone debris. Zelenskyy stated this decision follows an unilaterally announced "energy ceasefire" by former U.S. President Donald Trump, which he claims the U.S. used to pressure Ukraine to halt attacks on Russian refineries. He also accused the U.S. of weakening Ukraine's battlefield position by allegedly withdrawing intelligence sharing and suggested restrictions on SpaceX's satellite internet service.

Ukraine has resumed strikes on Russian refineries, with a recent attack targeting an installation in the Ryazan region. This action follows Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's expression of anger over a withdrawal of US intelligence. Previously, Kyiv had paused refinery attacks since US President Donald Trump announced an energy ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine on Sunday. Trump had attributed rising global diesel prices to these Ukrainian strikes on Russian refineries. The resumption of attacks indicates a defiance of Trump's call for an energy ceasefire.

During a visit to Washington, UK Defence Secretary Wes Streeting urged the United States to continue its support for Ukraine, aiming to ease tensions following a dispute over Starlink satellite internet. Streeting argued that backing Ukraine is in America's long-term economic and strategic interests, presenting it as a business opportunity. The Starlink issue, which reportedly limited Ukraine's military drone capabilities, has caused concern for Kyiv's war effort. Streeting acknowledged the significance of US support and the potential for future defense-industrial relationships. The discussions also touched upon other bilateral issues, but Ukraine's situation was highlighted as the most urgent.

Ukrainians are concerned about reduced US intelligence sharing, specifically from NATO early-warning satellites, which President Zelenskyy stated is impacting their ability to detect incoming Russian ballistic missiles. This lack of timely warnings, which previously provided up to ten minutes for evacuations, has coincided with intensified Russian strikes on civilian infrastructure. Ukrainian observers suggest this may be linked to US President Donald Trump's push for an "energy ceasefire" and peace negotiations, potentially to influence upcoming midterm elections by lowering global oil prices. Trump has denied stopping intelligence sharing, but Ukraine's military suggests the reduced data hinders air defense effectiveness and precision strikes against Russian targets. Despite Kyiv temporarily halting refinery attacks, Russia has continued its strikes, and analysts believe Moscow is exploiting the situation.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed feeling "betrayed" by former US President Donald Trump following reports of restricted access to Elon Musk's Starlink satellite system for Ukraine's military. Zelenskyy stated that this restriction, which impacts drone operations and air defense, was a decision made by SpaceX and the United States, potentially leading to significant human losses. He accused Trump of "picking the other side" and noted that this issue strains relations, already impacted by the US purchasing diesel from Moscow. Trump has denied cutting intelligence sharing, though Zelenskyy mentioned threats of limited future intelligence. The article also details Zelenskyy's meetings in London with Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who pledged continued British support and accelerated military aid.

Russia launched a "massive" attack on Ukraine's energy and communications infrastructure, killing at least six people and leaving hundreds of thousands without power. The strikes targeted heat and power plants, a thermal power plant, an electricity substation, and a data center in Kyiv and the surrounding region, as well as in Kharkiv. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine did not receive advance warning from its allies about the ballistic missile attacks and accused Russia of violating an announced "energy ceasefire." The article also mentions Ukrainian drone strikes on Russia, with one person killed in Saratov and numerous drones reportedly downed near Moscow.

Russian ballistic missile strikes hit a key energy facility supplying Kyiv with heating and electricity, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The Darnytska CHP-4 power plant and a residential building were targeted late Tuesday. Zelensky stated the strikes occurred without early warning from partners. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko reported one person killed and thirteen injured in the strike on the apartment block, with four in serious condition. This follows an announcement by US President Donald Trump of an energy ceasefire, which Zelensky said Ukraine supported but Russia subsequently targeted another power plant. Zelensky emphasized the lack of early warnings for ballistic missile launches and called for international attention to Russia's actions.

Iran is intensifying its crackdown on Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet service, viewing it as a "tool of war" that could undermine state control over cyberspace amid ongoing conflict with the US and Israel. Authorities have outlawed Starlink, imposing fines and imprisonment for its use, possession, and distribution, with penalties escalating to the death penalty if linked to national security charges. Officials cite Starlink's ability to bypass government filtering and restrictions as a threat, particularly after prolonged internet shutdowns in response to protests and the war. Iran is employing jamming, GPS spoofing, and physical interception to block the service, and has also pursued diplomatic channels to halt its transmissions. The government advocates for domestic internet platforms and a tiered access model during restrictions.

Ukrainian soldiers have experienced restrictions on their Starlink satellite internet access, impacting combat missions. This disruption occurred as the Trump administration reportedly pressured Ukraine to cease long-range strikes on Russia's oil industry. The restrictions, affecting terminals used by military personnel, led to the failure of several missions, according to a military technology adviser to Ukraine's president. The outage coincided with Russia launching ballistic missiles at Ukraine without advance warning from the US, although Ukraine did receive warnings from other partners for subsequent barrages. SpaceX has not confirmed any changes to Starlink's functionality, and it remains unclear why the restrictions were implemented.