The Kremlin has denied reports of a planned face-to-face meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, stating there was no agreement between Putin and former U.S. President Donald Trump on the matter. Kremlin foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov clarified that discussions are ongoing about a trilateral meeting, but no formal agreement has been reached.
The statement comes amid heightened tensions in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, with both sides continuing to engage in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation. While some sources have suggested that a direct dialogue between Putin and Zelensky could lead to a breakthrough in peace negotiations, the Kremlin has consistently emphasized the importance of diplomatic channels and international mediation. The U.S. remains a key player in the conflict, with its support for Ukraine playing a significant role in shaping the geopolitical landscape.
Analysts suggest that the denial by the Kremlin may be an attempt to manage expectations and prevent further escalation. With the war in Ukraine entering its second year, the international community is closely monitoring any potential developments that could impact the conflict’s trajectory. While a direct meeting between the two leaders could be seen as a positive step, the Kremlin’s stance indicates that any such talks would require careful negotiation and significant diplomatic effort.