Russia aims to avoid broader conflict with Europe

Recent statements from US envoy Steve Witkoff indicate that Russia does not plan to expand its war efforts beyond Ukraine. He emphasized that President Vladimir Putin's intentions are limited and that fears of a wider conflict in Europe are overstated. European nations have been increasing their defense budgets recently, worried that the US may reduce its support for European security. Witkoff, speaking on Fox News, said he believes Putin does not want to conquer all of Europe. He labeled concerns about broader Russian aggression as "academic" and stressed the urgent need to stop violence in Ukraine. Meanwhile, US and Ukrainian officials are set to meet in Saudi Arabia to discuss ways to end the ongoing Russian invasion. The Kremlin, however, has cautioned that negotiations will be difficult and that there is a long road ahead to achieve peace. Witkoff expressed hope that a ceasefire could be negotiated, particularly regarding Black Sea shipping between Ukraine and Russia. He believes progress can be made during the talks in Saudi Arabia. But Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reminded everyone that many questions about a ceasefire remain unresolved. There are also indications that former US President Donald Trump and Putin may have communicated more than previously reported. This speculation has raised concerns among European leaders about the US potentially shifting its focus away from Europe in pursuit of a deal with Russia.