Trump emphasized his 'love' for the Ukrainian people and his commitment to provide security guarantees for Kyiv in an ultimate peace settlement with Russia.

Talks would come “step by step, gradually, starting from the expert level and then going through all the necessary stages,” says Russia’s foot-dragging foreign minister.

According to the report, Witkoff’s meeting with Russian dictator Vladimir Putin derailed the quiet progress made toward a ceasefire and introduced conditions Kyiv could never accept. Read also: EU leaders brace for sensitive White House talks on Ukraine - NYT During the summit with U.