Reports from Axios and CNN suggest that former US President Donald Trump is aiming for a high-stakes trilateral summit with Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin as early as next Friday. This ambitious plan hinges on the success of a meeting between Trump and Zelensky scheduled for Monday in the Oval Office.
Trump’s recent meeting with Putin in Anchorage, Alaska, on Friday, reportedly set the stage for this potential summit. While Trump described the talks as “warm,” Putin characterized them as “frank” and “substantive.” A subsequent phone call between Trump and Zelensky, involving European leaders, followed, with Trump reportedly expressing his desire for the trilateral summit next Friday. At least one European leader is expected to be present at the Washington talks with Zelensky, adding an international dimension to the already complex situation.
Trump himself confirmed the Monday meeting with Zelensky on his Truth Social network, hinting at a subsequent meeting with Putin aimed at achieving a lasting peace agreement, rather than a temporary ceasefire, which he believes are often unreliable. This aligns with Moscow’s stated position that a lasting settlement requires Ukraine to renounce NATO aspirations, demilitarize, and recognize Russia’s annexation of Crimea, Donetsk, Lugansk, Kherson, and Zaporozhye. Zelensky has consistently refused any territorial concessions, setting the stage for a potentially tense summit.
Adding fuel to the fire, Trump publicly urged Zelensky to “make the deal,” emphasizing Putin’s willingness to reach an agreement and calling on Europe to become more involved. However, Moscow has raised questions about Zelensky’s authority to sign binding agreements, given that his presidential term expired last year and no new elections have been held under martial law. Putin has indicated openness to direct talks, but only after progress is made on a broader settlement. The coming week will undoubtedly be crucial in determining whether this ambitious summit will materialize and, if so, what its outcome might be. The international community watches with bated breath.
