Trump and Putin Held a 2-Hour Meeting; Discussed a Ceasefire. Zelensky Offered Unconditional Peace, but Russia's Stance Remains Unclear.
Trump-Putin Meeting: Recent diplomatic activity centered around the three-year-long war between Russia and Ukraine involved a nearly two-hour conversation between former US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. While this meeting generated considerable anticipation, its outcome remains somewhat ambiguous.
Trump Expresses Hope for War's End
Following the meeting, Donald Trump stated that Russia and Ukraine could soon initiate discussions regarding a ceasefire. He described the conversation as "excellent" and claimed that Russia now desires to engage in trade with the United States. Trump further asserted that ending the war could strengthen trade relations between the two countries.
"This Wasn't Our War" – Trump's Statement
Trump clarified that the Russo-Ukrainian war is a consequence of the previous US administration's policies. He stated, "I've seen satellite images that were quite horrifying. Thousands of soldiers are being killed every week. We will do what we can, but we didn't start this war."
Putin's Stance: Address the Root Causes First, Then Negotiate
Following his conversation with Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a statement. He indicated that Russia is prepared to draft a peace agreement with Ukraine, but that addressing the underlying causes of the conflict is a prerequisite. However, he did not specify which "causes" he was referring to.
Zelensky Sets Clear Conditions
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky spoke with Trump twice – once before and once after Trump's meeting with Putin. He stated that Ukraine is prepared for an unconditional ceasefire. However, he also warned that if Russia does not cease hostilities, b economic sanctions should be imposed.
Considering Multiple Options for Peace Talks
Zelensky indicated that Ukraine is prepared for negotiations in any format. Countries such as Turkey, the Vatican, and Switzerland are being considered as potential venues. He stated that their representatives are fully prepared for negotiations and capable of making decisions under any circumstances.
Information Shared with European Leaders
Following his conversation with Putin, Trump briefed several global leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and Finnish President Alexander Stubb.
