The upcoming meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U. S. Presidential Special Envoy Steve Witkoff is seen as another step toward a potential peaceful settlement in Ukraine, according to Ivan Timofeev, Director General of the Russian International Affairs Council, who shared his view with RIA Novosti. He noted that the meeting is one element of an ongoing negotiation process, while the timeline for resolving the conflict remains impossible to predict.

Timofeev said the meeting should be viewed as an important part of diplomatic dialogue, though not its final point. He described the broader effort as a gradual diplomatic mosaic taking shape. The expert stressed the need for cautious expectations, pointing out that much of the information remains closed to the public — a normal practice in diplomacy.

He added that progress in the negotiation process is visible, yet it is too early to expect major breakthroughs. According to Timofeev, the specific agenda of the meeting is unknown, but as a special envoy, Witkoff will likely present key updates reflecting the U.S. view of the talks. Putin, in turn, may outline several positions intended for the American leadership.

Earlier, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced that Putin would meet Witkoff on December 2, with the meeting expected to take place in the afternoon.

The U.S. administration has previously stated that it is working on a plan for a Ukrainian settlement but will not disclose details until the work is complete. The Kremlin, for its part, has reiterated that Russia remains open to negotiations and continues to adhere to the discussion platform established in Anchorage.