Hopes for a direct meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky have dimmed. The Kremlin has played down the chances of a summit, despite calls for negotiations from US President Donald Trump.
Earlier this week, Putin told Trump he was “open” to talks with Kyiv. However, the Kremlin quickly softened this message. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said any meeting would require careful preparation. He stressed talks must start gradually with expert-level discussions.
Dmitry Polyanskiy, Russia’s deputy ambassador to the United Nations, echoed the cautious approach. He told the BBC that no side had rejected talks but warned against meeting “just for the sake of a meeting.”
Reports also said Putin suggested Zelensky could travel to Moscow for talks. This idea was seen in Kyiv as unrealistic and strategically unacceptable.
Trump continues to push for negotiations despite the challenges. After meeting both leaders recently, he admitted the war is difficult to resolve. Trump said, “We will find out about Putin soon,” suggesting the Russian president may resist a deal.
While Trump once promised a ceasefire, he now calls for a permanent peace agreement. He also floated the idea of US air support if Europe sends ground forces but ruled out sending American troops.
European leaders remain skeptical. French President Emmanuel Macron called Putin “a predator,” doubting his willingness for peace. Finland’s President Alexander Stubb said Putin is “rarely to be trusted.”
The Kremlin still demands political changes from Kyiv as a peace condition. Ukraine rejects these demands and insists on sovereignty.
With tensions high and both sides firm, a breakthrough seems unlikely. More diplomatic talks are planned in Washington and Europe this week. Leaders are trying to balance dialogue with support for Ukraine’s defense.
In other related news also read Trump Claims Putin may be Willing to Strike Ukraine deal
