Putin Holds Key Diplomatic Talks in Moscow on Ukraine, Gaza, and Frozen Assets

Russian President Vladimir Putin engaged in a series of high-stakes diplomatic discussions in Moscow on January 22, 2026, addressing critical international issues. The talks included meetings with US Special Presidential Envoy Steve Witkoff and American businessman Jared Kushner, focusing on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the status of frozen Russian assets. Concurrently, President Putin hosted Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to deliberate on the situation in Gaza and foster bilateral cooperation. These meetings underscored Russia's active role in global diplomacy amidst complex geopolitical landscapes.

Discussions on Ukraine and Frozen Assets with US Envoys

President Putin's discussions with US Special Presidential Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner centered on pathways to resolve the Ukraine conflict and the contentious issue of frozen Russian assets. During these talks, President Putin indicated Russia's willingness to allocate a portion of its frozen assets in the United States for the reconstruction of Ukrainian regions damaged by the war, contingent upon the conclusion of a peace treaty. A significant proposal from the Russian side involved an offer to contribute $1 billion from these frozen assets towards a new international body, the 'Board of Peace,' an initiative proposed by US President Donald Trump. This offer, made during a meeting of the Russian Security Council, was presented as a fee for permanent membership in the Board. Putin was quoted by TASS as saying, 'I plan to discuss these issues with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, with whom I will hold talks tomorrow, as well as with US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, who will also be in Moscow tomorrow to continue dialogue on issues related to the Ukrainian settlement.' He also stated, 'Even before we resolve the issue of participation in the Peace Council and its work, given Russia's special relationship with the Palestinian people, I believe we could direct $1 billion to the Peace Council from Russian assets frozen under the previous U.S. administration.' Furthermore, Putin added, 'The remaining funds from our frozen assets in the U.S. could also be used to rebuild territories damaged by the fighting after the conclusion of a peace treaty between Russia and Ukraine.' While the total value of Russian assets frozen in the US is estimated between $4 billion and $5 billion, this represents a small fraction of the approximately $300 billion frozen worldwide, predominantly in Europe. The Russian Foreign Ministry has been tasked with reviewing Trump's invitation to join the Board of Peace.

Gaza and Bilateral Cooperation with Palestinian Leadership

On the same day, President Putin held extensive talks with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas at the Kremlin. The agenda primarily focused on the escalating crisis in the Gaza Strip, broader regional security concerns, and strengthening bilateral ties between Russia and Palestine. President Abbas used the platform to advocate for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces, and unimpeded humanitarian access to the region. President Putin reaffirmed Russia's steadfast support for Palestinian self-determination and a comprehensive, peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He emphasized the necessity of implementing all United Nations decisions, particularly those leading to the establishment of a fully-fledged Palestinian state. The Russian leader also linked his offer of $1 billion from frozen assets to the 'Board of Peace' with the intention of supporting the Palestinian people and facilitating the reconstruction of Gaza.

The 'Board of Peace' and Russia's Strategic Engagement

The 'Board of Peace' is an international body conceptualized by US President Donald Trump, initially aimed at overseeing the Gaza ceasefire but envisioned to expand its role in mediating global conflicts. Membership requires a $1 billion fee for a permanent seat. President Putin explicitly stated that Russia's potential participation in this Board would be driven by the objective of safeguarding Palestinian interests and directing funds towards the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip and addressing broader Palestinian issues. He clarified that the $1 billion would be used 'first and foremost to support the Palestinian people and to direct those funds to the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip and, in general, to resolve Palestinian problems.' This move positions Russia as a significant player in the ongoing diplomatic efforts surrounding the Middle East. These concurrent diplomatic engagements highlight Russia's multifaceted approach to international relations, seeking to influence outcomes in both the Ukraine conflict and the Middle East. The discussions in Moscow reflect ongoing efforts to find resolutions to protracted crises, with the issue of frozen assets and the proposed 'Board of Peace' adding new dimensions to global geopolitical negotiations.