Kellogg and Witkoff plan to attend Ukraine–Russia negotiations in Istanbul – media

U.S. President Donald Trump’s special envoys, Steven Witkoff and Keith Kellogg, will travel to Istanbul to be present at the upcoming talks between Ukraine and Russia.

This was reported by Reuters, citing sources familiar with the plans.

“Senior envoys of U.S. President Donald Trump — Steven Witkoff and Keith Kellogg — will travel to Istanbul for possible negotiations on Thursday on how to end Russia’s war in Ukraine,” said the report.

CNN confirmed the information, adding that Witkoff and Kellogg will attend the Istanbul meetings strictly as observers.

Trump’s own visit to Istanbul depends on whether Russian President Vladimir Putin participates in the talks, a senior White House official told CNN.

“Everything is very fluid right now,” the official said, noting that it’s unclear what exactly will happen on Thursday.

Regardless of Trump’s personal attendance, his envoys will be there to observe the Ukraine-Russia negotiations mediated by Turkey, according to CNN.

Kellogg stated that Washington hopes Putin will attend the talks in Istanbul, in which case Trump would also go. He called the potential direct negotiations between Ukraine and Russia “a remarkable meeting.”

Kellogg also emphasized that the United States is aiming for a comprehensive ceasefire in Ukraine, with territorial issues to be addressed afterward.

Additionally, he warned of the possibility of “significant” and “the harshest-ever” U.S. sanctions against Russia if no progress is made in the negotiations.