Trump Rules Out Putin-Zelenskyy Meeting as Precondition for US-Russia Talks
Trump also spoke about the White House-imposed deadline for Moscow to halt its military operation in Ukraine.
US President Donald Trump may hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the coming days, according to several reports. The possible meeting has led to intense speculation, particularly over whether Putin would first have discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Trump has now put those rumours to rest, stating clearly that a prior meeting between the Russian and Ukrainian leaders is not a precondition for US-Russia talks.
When asked whether Putin must first meet Zelenskyy before engaging with the United States, Trump responded firmly, “No, he doesn’t. No.”
Trump also spoke about the deadline set by the White House for Moscow to stop its war in Ukraine or face fresh sanctions from the US. When asked about the steps he might take as the Friday deadline approaches, he said, “It’s going to be up to him. We’re going to see what he has to say.” The President further stated, “Very disappointed. I don’t like long waits. I think it’s a shame.”
Russia’s Deputy UN Ambassador, Dmitry Polyanskiy, echoed the view that a meeting between Putin and Zelenskyy is unlikely before any engagement with Trump. “I haven’t heard about any meeting planned, but I am not in the loop,” he told reporters.
While the exact venue of the expected Trump-Putin meeting is yet to be confirmed, reports suggest it could be held next week in the United Arab Emirates. President Putin has shown optimism regarding the potential talks. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that logistical arrangements were still being finalised.
This would be the first official meeting between the two leaders since Trump took office for his second term. The last formal meeting between US and Russian Presidents took place in June 2021, when President Vladimir Putin met then-President Joe Biden in Geneva.
Meanwhile, Ukraine has reiterated the need for European involvement in any peace discussions. President Zelenskyy recently said, “Europe must be a participant in the relevant processes. The war is happening in Europe, and Ukraine is an integral part of Europe.”
Trump has already informed several European leaders of his intent to meet with Putin. The meeting could potentially lead to a larger trilateral summit involving Zelenskyy at a later stage.
