Trump Announces Preparations for a Meeting Between Putin and Zelensky Ahead of Triangular Summit in Washington
Follow-up
U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Monday evening the commencement of preparations for a bilateral meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, as part of Washington’s efforts to advance peace talks between Moscow and Kyiv.
Trump stated via his platform, Truth Social, that he had contacted the Russian president to discuss organizing the meeting, with the date and location to be determined later. He noted that a triangular meeting would subsequently be held with the participation of the two leaders and the involvement of Washington.
The American president clarified that his discussions with Zelensky and European leaders at the White House specifically addressed the issue of security guarantees for Ukraine, which will be provided by several European countries in coordination with the United States.
Trump emphasized that “positive momentum” characterized the meetings, expressing his satisfaction with “the willingness of all parties to reach a ceasefire,” describing the step as “a promising start” to end a conflict that has lasted nearly four years.
He indicated that his Vice President, J.D. Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff are coordinating with Moscow and Kyiv regarding the next steps.
European leaders who attended the meeting, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, stressed the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire alongside U.S. mediation efforts.
