Putin's close aide Dmitriev holds meeting with Witkoff in Washington

Kremlin President Vladimir Putin's special envoy, Kirill Dmitriev, confirmed that he is currently in Washington to engage with U.S. administration officials in an effort to "restore dialogue."

He shared this update on his Telegram channel on Thursday.

Dmitriev stated that, on Putin's orders, he held meetings in Washington with representatives of the Trump administration on April 2-3. This confirmed earlier media reports about his visit.

Dmitriev noted that various groups seeking to maintain tensions are hindering the restoration of "constructive interaction" between Russia and the United States globally. He claimed these forces deliberately misrepresent Russia's stance, actively working to obstruct any steps toward dialogue, investing considerable resources in the process.

He claimed that “the resumption of dialogue is a complicated and gradual endeavor, but every meeting, every open conversation brings us closer to progress.”

Dmitriev highlighted that a “true understanding of Russia's position” could unlock “new opportunities for constructive engagement,” particularly in investment and economic sectors.

He added that he would provide brief comments after his meetings in Washington.

Background

Earlier, Reuters, citing sources, reported that Kirill Dmitriev arrived in Washington on April 2, where he met with U.S. Special Representative Steve Witkoff.  

It is still unclear what the Russian and American officials discussed. However, Dmitriev's visit followed after U.S. President Donald Trump expressed his disappointment with the pace of ceasefire negotiations.  

Sources said that Witkoff invited Putin's close advisor to Washington last week. The White House also instructed the State Department to issue Dmitriev a short-term entry license to the U.S., a necessary step as Dmitriev is under sanctions.  

"Dmitriev may be key in repairing relations that were, until Trump's January inauguration, the worst between Moscow and Washington since the most dangerous junctures of the Cold War," journalists write. Dmitriev himself shared a flight map to the U.S. and wrote: "Whatever your politics—dialogue between the US and Russia matters. It’s about building a more secure, more prosperous world for everyone."

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