Egypt Daily News – The U.S. envoy to the Middle East and participant in U.S.-Russia negotiations, Steve Witkoff, stated that Washington expects American companies to return to Russia if agreements on Ukraine are reached.
Witkoff responded to a question about discussing the lifting of sanctions on Russia during the Riyadh meeting, saying: “We did not discuss this issue in the meeting you mentioned. But I believe it is clear that if we reach a peace agreement, American companies will be able to return and do business there. I think everyone sees this as a positive event after the war ends.”
He praised his meetings with Russian officials in Moscow and expressed confidence that Presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump would succeed in their plans for U.S.-Russia relations.
“We had a very good and wonderful discussion with the Russian president. Now, Presidents Putin and Trump need to reach a solution. I believe they will succeed,” Witkoff said.
Earlier, the Financial Times reported, citing sources, that some American companies had shown interest in returning to the Russian market, though none had taken actual steps in that direction.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov also stated that the country should allow Western companies to enter only sectors that do not pose risks to the national economy.
Meanwhile, some media outlets and Telegram channels have reported alleged plans by foreign brands and companies, including car manufacturers, to return to Russia.
