U.S. President Donald Trump has declared that a face-to-face meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky ‘is going to happen.’ The statement comes amid ongoing tensions in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, with both sides seeking a diplomatic resolution. Trump, who has consistently pushed for a settlement since taking office, has been vocal about his desire to see the two leaders engage in direct talks. However, the Kremlin has made it clear that any such summit should only take place after a final peace agreement is reached. The White House press secretary confirmed that Trump intended to speak with the press on the issue and that a meeting between Putin and Zelensky is ‘going to happen.’
During a press briefing, Trump emphasized that the meeting should have taken place three months ago but remains committed to facilitating it. ‘It’s going to happen, but it should have happened three months ago. It’s going to happen,’ he stated, without specifying a timeframe. Trump’s comments come as part of his broader strategy to pressure both sides into a resolution to the ongoing conflict. Earlier this month, he had threatened to impose ‘severe’ secondary tariffs of up to 100% on Russia’s trading partners unless a deal is reached by early September. This move has raised concerns among international markets, as it could disrupt trade and further escalate tensions in the region.
Moscow has maintained that it is open to a diplomatic settlement but insists that it must address the conflict’s ‘root causes.’ This includes Ukraine’s neutrality, the recognition of ‘territorial reality on the ground,’ and the demilitarization and denazification of the country. The Kremlin has also raised concerns about Zelensky’s legal authority, noting that his presidential term expired in May 2024, and he has refused to call for new elections, citing martial law. Russian officials have suggested that any documents signed under Zelensky’s name could be challenged in the future. Putin has indicated openness to a meeting with Zelensky, but only if it comes at the final stage of talks. Additionally, Russia has demanded that Ukraine lift martial law and hold elections within 100 days as part of any lasting ceasefire.
Zelensky has repeatedly called for direct talks with Putin, and Ukrainian negotiators have proposed such a summit at recent bilateral talks in Istanbul, framing it as essential to ending the fighting. The Kremlin has not ruled out a meeting, but it insists that groundwork must first be laid at the working level. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized that the meeting should occur only after meaningful progress has been made. The situation remains highly complex, with both sides having very different priorities and expectations. Trump’s continued pressure on both sides reflects his belief that a settlement is not only necessary but also in the best interest of global stability and economic recovery.