US and Russia to discuss access to Zaporizhzhya NPP and Black Sea ports — Vitkoff

This was announced by US Special Representative for the Middle East Steve Witkoff in an interview with CBS News, as reported by Ukrinform.

Asked whether Moscow and Washington are discussing technical aspects regarding the territories that will be handed over along with the ceasefire and peace agreement, Vitkoff noted that “there are different conditions on the battlefield.”

“There are areas where, as we all know, Russian forces are concentrated. There is a nuclear reactor there that produces a significant amount of electricity for Ukraine. That situation needs to be addressed. There is also access to ports. There is an agreement on capabilities in the Black Sea, and there are many factors that need to be taken into account to achieve a ceasefire here,” Witkoff emphasized.

He noted that the situation is difficult, but “no one is giving up.”

Commenting on the upcoming meeting between Trump and Putin, scheduled for Tuesday, March 18, Witkoff emphasized that both leaders “have had a real relationship since their first term.”

“I think this will be a very positive and constructive conversation between the two people, between the two presidents,” Wittkoff added.

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He also noted that “President Trump is the final decision maker,” while Putin is the decision maker on behalf of Russia.

“I think it's a very positive sign that they will start talking at some point. I think it shows positive momentum and the intent of both countries, including Ukraine, to achieve long-term, sustainable peace here,” Witkoff concluded.

As Ukrinform reported earlier, US President Donald Trump said he plans to hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday, March 18, to discuss ending the war in Ukraine.

Photo: Bloomberg