Key facts
- President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed Ukraine received a briefing from the U.S. on recent meetings in Moscow.
- Zelensky welcomed the U.S.'s "realistic vision" for ending Russia's war against Ukraine.
- The briefing followed a trip to Moscow by CIA Director John Ratcliffe.
- U.S. President Donald Trump characterized Ratcliffe's visit as "semi-routine."
- Ukraine was reportedly asked to avoid strikes on Moscow and St. Petersburg during Ratcliffe's visit.
President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on August 28 that Ukraine had been briefed by the U.S. on the outcomes of recent meetings held in Moscow. Zelensky expressed gratitude for the information and stated that he values the U.S.'s "realistic vision" for resolving the conflict, emphasizing that Russia must end its war.
The briefing followed a visit by CIA Director John Ratcliffe to Moscow, where he held meetings with Russian officials. Ukraine had previously stated it had not yet received details of the trip's contents despite assurances from Washington. U.S. President Donald Trump described Ratcliffe's visit as "semi-routine," downplaying speculation about its purpose.