U.S. to demand Putin accept Ukraine’s right to military force

The U.S. is demanding Russia recognize Ukraine’s right to maintain an independent defense industry as part of a peace deal, countering Moscow’s push for a largely demilitarized end to the conflict. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff will engage with Russian President Vladimir Putin on this issue during his visit. This move reflects the U.S. administration's pivot, signaling concessions aimed at ending a war now in its fourth year, with critics viewing the proposals as favoring Russia.