Negotiation Team Assembled for Russia-US Ukraine Dispute

Russian President Vladimir Putin has assembled a seasoned team of negotiators to engage with representatives of US President Donald Trump in a bid to resolve the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Key Players:

* Yuri Ushakov: Putin's chief foreign policy advisor with over 50 years of diplomatic experience, including as ambassador to the US.
* Sergei Naryshkin: Top spymaster and long-time Putin confidante, having served with him in the KGB.
* Kirill Dmitriev: Financier with international experience and ties to the Russian president's family, likely serving as an unofficial intermediary.

Putin's Strategy:

* Deploying skilled and experienced negotiators to secure a favorable outcome in the Ukraine negotiations.
* Adapting his tactics by including Dmitriev, who has a network in the US and experience in deal-making.

Trump's Team:

* Lacks the same depth of knowledge about Ukraine and direct experience in negotiating with Russia.
* Could face challenges due to Putin's apparent unwillingness to make significant concessions.

UShakov's Background:

* Deep understanding of the US establishment and influence in Moscow.
* Played a key role in early ceasefire talks with Ukraine following the 2022 invasion.

Naryshkin's Involvement:

* Confidant of Putin for over four decades.
* Facilitated continued contact with US special services after a call between Trump and Putin.

Dmitriev's Role:

* Involved in securing the release of American teacher Marc Fogel from a Russian prison.
* Seen as a goodwill gesture linked to the Ukraine negotiations.
* Extensive experience in business deals and connections in the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia.

Other Potential Members:

* Presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, born in Ukraine and with decades of state service experience.
* Focused primarily on negotiations with Ukrainian representatives.