Steve Witkoff, special envoy for US President Donald Trump, revealed on 22/1 that parties involved in Russia-Ukraine conflict negotiations have made "encouraging" progress. "We have narrowed it down to a single issue, and the parties have discussed many versions for that issue," he stated at a World Economic Forum (WEF) event in Switzerland. "This means that the sticking point can be resolved. If both sides want to resolve it, we will succeed."

Witkoff did not specify the remaining sticking point. However, the most challenging content previously mentioned by the parties involves territorial concessions and division once the conflict ends.

Russia demands Ukraine cede control of the entire Donbass region in the east. Yet, Ukrainian forces on the ground hold approximately 20% of Donetsk province within this area, including two key "fortress cities" that experts suggest could take Russia years to control militarily.

Ukraine firmly rejects relinquishing territory. Its leaders have repeatedly argued they are constitutionally bound to hold a referendum on any territorial concession proposals. This process cannot occur while the country remains at war.

Steve Witkoff (right), special envoy of US President Donald Trump, and Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law, at the annual WEF meeting in Davos on 20/1. Photo: AP

Special envoy Witkoff is expected to travel to Moskva on 22/1 for a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that two US representatives would visit Moskva to discuss "the settlement of the Ukraine issue and related topics." Peskov, however, declined to comment on Witkoff's expressed optimism before the visit. He added that President Putin "appreciates" and welcomes mediation efforts from US President Donald Trump and his team.

A day earlier, President Trump stated in Davos that Russian and Ukrainian leaders "would be foolish not to sit down and reach an agreement," adding that ending the conflict "is very close."

The day before that, Witkoff, alongside Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law, met with Ukrainian negotiator Rustem Umerov. Umerov disclosed that discussions focused on economic development, post-war plans for Ukraine, and security guarantees.

President Zelensky departed for Davos today to attend the WEF, where he is scheduled to meet President Trump at 13h (19h Hanoi time).

Thanh Danh (According to Reuters, Newsweek, CNN)