US media reported on 5/8, citing anonymous sources familiar with the matter, that US special envoy Steve Witkoff's visit to Russia this week represents a rare remaining opportunity for Moscow and Washington to reach an agreement on the Ukraine conflict, even though expectations of success are low.

One concession Russia is considering for President Donald Trump is suspending long-range missile and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) attacks against its neighbor, provided that the Ukrainian military reciprocates, according to a source.

"We attach great importance to such meetings, but we will not comment in advance," Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said when asked about potential Russian proposals during Witkoff's visit.

Residents in Kyiv province next to the wreckage of a Russian UAV on 3/8. Photo: *AP*

During a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on 1/8, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko also mentioned establishing an "air ceasefire" in Ukraine, but Putin did not comment at the time.

It remains unclear whether Russia's proposed concessions include any conditions deemed unacceptable to Ukraine and its allies.

Putin is believed to be unwilling to accept a complete ceasefire while Russian forces continue to make steady progress on the battlefield. In his meeting with Lukashenko, Putin reiterated that Russia's objectives in the Ukraine campaign remain unchanged.

Putin has repeatedly rejected calls for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine from the US and Europe but did declare a unilateral 72-hour ceasefire during Russia's commemoration of the 80th anniversary of Victory Day in the Great Patriotic War in May.

Two months prior, Russia and Ukraine agreed to a 30-day halt to attacks on each other's energy infrastructure following separate phone calls between their leaders and Trump. However, both sides accused each other of violating the agreement.

Witkoff's trip marks his fifth visit to Russia this year. Trump indicated Witkoff would arrive in Russia as early as 6/8, and the Kremlin suggested a potential meeting with Putin.

Witkoff (left) and Putin shake hands before a meeting in Saint Petersburg, Russia, on 11/4. Photo: *AFP*

Before Witkoff's visit, Trump increased pressure on Russia by threatening heavy tariffs on countries purchasing Russian oil and other goods, including India and China.

"Trump needs the gift of a concession from Russia, and an air ceasefire could be it," commented Sergei Markov, a political consultant close to the Kremlin.

Since returning to the White House with a pledge to swiftly end the war in Ukraine, Trump has spoken with Putin six times but has yet to secure a comprehensive ceasefire. This has led to growing dissatisfaction on the US president's part with his Russian counterpart.

Pham Giang (*Reuters, Ukrainska Pravda*)