President Trump is considering meetings between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the coming weeks, aiming to halt the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
During a call with European allies on Wednesday, Trump mentioned the potential for a meeting with both leaders, though the specifics regarding timing and location remain unclear, as does whether all parties have given their consent.
White House spokesperson Caroline Leavitt stated that Russia has shown interest in discussions involving Trump.
“As President Trump mentioned today, Envoy Witkov has made significant progress in his discussions with Putin,” Leavitt noted. “The Russians are keen to meet with President Trump, who is open to engaging with both Putin and Zelensky. The objective is to bring an end to this devastating war.”
The New York Times was among the first to report that Trump intended to meet with both leaders soon. The report indicated that Trump informed European counterparts that only he, Putin, and Zelensky would be involved in the talks, but it remains uncertain whether both leaders agreed to participate.
On Wednesday, Steve Witkov, the president’s peace envoy, held discussions with Putin. Trump described the meeting on social media as “very productive.”
“We’ve briefed our European allies since then,” Trump shared. “There is a consensus that the war must conclude, and we’re committed to working toward this goal in the upcoming days and weeks.”
Zelensky posted on social media early Wednesday about his conversation with Trump following Witkov’s meeting in Russia.
“Our joint stance with partners is crystal clear: The war needs to end,” Zelensky stated. “And it has to be achieved honestly. European leaders reached out to me, and I appreciate their support. We discussed what was outlined in Moscow.”
Trump and Zelensky have met several times during Trump’s second term, including the notable White House call where Trump and Vice President Pence suggested Ukraine hadn’t shown enough gratitude for U.S. assistance.
Trump has also maintained regular phone conversations with Putin, indicating his willingness to meet with Russian leaders face-to-face.
Though Trump campaigned on a promise to resolve the Ukraine conflict within 24 hours of taking office—later chalking it up to “sarcasm”—he has recently expressed frustration with Putin as Russian forces continue to bombard Ukrainian cities with drone attacks.
Meanwhile, the Trump administration plans to impose further sanctions on Russia later this week, and the White House announced it would double tariffs on India due to ongoing oil purchases from Russia, which it claims are fueling the Kremlin’s military efforts.
A spokesperson from the German government informed that Trump updated participants, including Prime Minister Friedrich Merz, about his stance in the Russia discussions during the call.
