By the end of September 2026, the US proposed a series of economic concessions to Russia in exchange for a partial ceasefire. Specifically, American negotiators Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff put forward initiatives to unfreeze Russian assets, allow the sale of a stake in Lukoil, and facilitate the export of potash from Belarus.
Conditions of the US Proposals
The proposals put forth by the US aimed to achieve a ceasefire in the energy sector or at sea. However, Kyiv did not dismiss these terms but instead laid out its own requirements, including:
- Security guarantees for Ukraine;
- Funding equivalent to the unfrozen Russian assets;
- Additional military assistance in case of a breach of the ceasefire.
Status of Negotiations
The negotiations between the US and Russia have stalled following a phone call between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, as well as an announcement regarding the purchase of Russian diesel. The Kremlin indicated that they would consider when to resume negotiations, adding further tension to international relations.