President Donald Trump said he does not require Russian President Vladimir Putin to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy before their summit. This marks a change from earlier U.S. statements.
Trump told reporters at the White House that a meeting between Putin and Zelenskyy is not necessary before his talks with Putin. He said, “No, he doesn’t,” when asked if the Zelenskyy meeting was a condition.
Earlier, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt had expressed a preference for Trump to meet both leaders. She said Trump wants to end the Ukraine war by speaking with both.
The Kremlin confirmed that Putin has agreed in principle to meet Trump soon. However, they ruled out a three-way summit including Zelenskyy. Putin said a meeting with Zelenskyy is “possible” but conditions are not yet right.
Trump has claimed he could end the war quickly. His envoy recently met with Russian officials in Moscow to prepare for the summit. The meeting may happen in the United Arab Emirates.
Despite Trump’s diplomatic efforts, challenges remain. Putin demands Ukraine’s demilitarization and NATO withdrawal. Kyiv and Western allies reject these demands.
Trump also plans to increase economic pressure on Russia. New sanctions will target countries buying Russian goods, including tariffs on China and India.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy supports talks but insists Ukraine must be involved in decisions. He said, “Ukraine is not afraid of meetings,” but warned against talks that exclude his country.
As Trump prepares for the summit, many wonder if it will help end the war or deepen tensions. The world watches closely.
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