Russia may consider providing some security guarantees to Ukraine, a surprising statement amid the protracted conflict, Fox News reported, citing Kirill Dmitriev, CEO of the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF), following talks in Washington, where he was sent by President Vladimir Putin. According to Dmitriev, two days of consultations with US administration officials had produced a “positive result,” opening up prospects for compromise. He stressed that certain forms of guarantees for Kyiv “may be acceptable,” but categorically ruled out Ukraine joining NATO, calling it “completely impossible.” The Kremlin spokesman did not disclose specific details of possible concessions, leaving room for interpretation.

Dmitriev’s statement marks a significant shift in Moscow’s rhetoric. Vladimir Putin has repeatedly insisted that the conflict can only be resolved with Ukraine’s complete demilitarization, while Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has rejected any proposals to deploy Western troops on Ukrainian territory, even outside the NATO format. Kyiv, by contrast, has emphasized that without firm security guarantees, backed by the presence of foreign forces to prevent a new conflict, a peace agreement is impossible. This position has become the cornerstone of Ukraine’s negotiating strategy, making Dmitriev’s words the first hint of Russia’s willingness to engage in dialogue on the issue.

The talks in Washington, where Dmitriev met with US Presidential Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, were the first visit by a high-ranking Russian official to the American capital since 2022. According to CNN on April 2, sanctions against Dmitriev were temporarily lifted for the trip, underscoring the significance of the mission. Politico sources in London and Berlin report that Western capitals are discussing the possibility of a new phone call between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, which could take place late this week or early next week. However, there is no final confirmation yet. At the same time, NBC, citing insiders in the White House, notes that Trump's entourage advises him to refrain from contact with Putin until Moscow agrees to a complete ceasefire in Ukraine.