The world is watching as the White House works to finalize a direct meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Officials announced that planning is in motion for the two leaders to meet within days to discuss an end to the war, a move described as a new phase in the peace process.
President Donald Trump reportedly secured Putin’s consent for the meeting during a phone call, according to his press secretary, Karoline Leavitt. Following meetings with Zelenskyy and NATO leaders, Trump is now playing a central role in orchestrating the talks. Leavitt confidently told reporters that Putin had agreed to the meeting within a two-week timeframe, though Russia’s official statements have been more guarded.
From Moscow, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov indicated that while peace discussions are welcome, a summit of this magnitude cannot be rushed and requires exhaustive preparation. This cautious tone contrasts with the White House’s more optimistic timeline. Trump himself reflected this duality, telling an interviewer he believes Putin is “tired” of the war but admitting it’s “possible that he doesn’t want to make a deal.”
For his part, President Zelenskyy is prepared for the high-stakes negotiation, stating that the future of occupied Ukrainian territory is a matter to be settled “between me and Putin.” In parallel, Ukraine is working with allies to establish robust security guarantees, a process that NATO military leaders are set to continue discussing. The U.S. has ruled out “boots on the ground” but has left the door open to providing air support.