A major US newspaper says the most senior Russian official to visit the US since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine is meeting with President Donald Trump's envoy in Washington.



The Washington Post said on Wednesday that Russian President Vladimir Putin's economic envoy Kirill Dmitriev is meeting with Trump's close ally and special envoy Steve Witkoff.



While it is not clear what the two are discussing, the newspaper said Dmitriev has recently been offering joint deals on rare earth minerals and cooperation on energy exploration and shipping routes in the Arctic.



The report said Dmitriev needed a temporary waiver from US sanctions barring him from visiting America.



The Trump administration is seeking to secure an early ceasefire in Ukraine. But regarding an agreement for safe navigation in the Black Sea, Russia has attached conditions for the deal to take effect, including the lifting of some sanctions.



Recently, Trump has expressed frustration at Putin, and it is unclear whether Dmitriev's visit will lead to progress in negotiations.