Trump's Representative: Potential for U.S. Companies to Operate in Russia Under Peace Agreement

WASHINGTON, Feb 23 (Reuters) - President's special envoy Steve Witkoff stated on Sunday that U.S. companies might expect to conduct business in Russia if a peace deal is reached.

President Trump has been advocating for a resolution to the conflict in Ukraine and engaged in discussions with Russian President Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy earlier this month.

"It would be anticipated that American companies could return to do business after a peace agreement is reached. I believe everyone would view that as a positive development," Witkoff told CBS News' "Face The Nation."

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent mentioned in a Bloomberg Television interview on Thursday that Russia could see some relief from U.S. sanctions by demonstrating willingness to end the war in Ukraine. When asked if the U.S. is willing to adjust sanctions on Russia depending on the progress of peace talks, Bessent responded, "That'd be a very good characterization."

In separate statements on Sunday, both Witkoff and Bessent expressed anticipation of a forthcoming agreement this week that would grant the U.S. access to Ukraine's crucial mineral resources.