**Russia Prepares to Talk with US**
Russian President Vladimir Putin is forming a team of experienced negotiators. They will talk to the United States about ending Russia’s war against Ukraine.
The Kremlin confirmed that Moscow is putting together a group for negotiations with the US. This comes after a phone call between Putin and US President Donald Trump.
**Who Will Be in the Team?**
Putin’s team will reportedly include:
* Yuriy Ushakov, his longtime foreign policy aide
* Sergey Naryshkin, director of Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR)
* Kirill Dmitriev, head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund and a close associate of Putin’s daughter
These individuals have experience in negotiating with Ukraine. They were also involved in previous failed talks.
**US Team**
The US has its own team, led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and CIA Director John Ratcliffe. They will negotiate on behalf of the US.
**Ukraine Wants to Be Involved**
Ukrainian President Zelensky wants European allies to be involved in peace negotiations. Ukraine insists that no talks should happen without their participation.