Trilateral Meeting Discussion Involving Zelensky and Trump

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed on Thursday that he had a conversation with President Donald Trump concerning a possible trilateral meeting, which might include Russian President Vladimir Putin. This discussion occurred just a day prior.

Zelensky echoed Trump’s remarks from Wednesday, noting that he had also communicated with European leaders and suggested that Putin was invited to the meeting to “Be Brave.”

In a post on X, he stated, “Various potential forms of leader-level meetings to bring peace were discussed yesterday: two bilateral and one trilateral.” It’s interesting to see how diplomatic conversations can unfold.

A Historic Meeting in the Works?

These comments follow months of efforts by the Trump administration aiming to bring Putin and Zelensky together. Yet, it seems less likely that Putin will agree to meet this time. Russian state media mentioned that while Putin is open to ideas, he insists “conditions must be created for negotiations.” However, a telegram from the Russian news agency RIA suggested that such “conditions” are currently absent.

Furthermore, Trump’s foreign policy advisor indicated that the trilateral meeting was “referred” but not specifically discussed during talks with White House envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump.

Ongoing Diplomatic Efforts

Yuri Ushakov, a Kremlin foreign policy advisor, noted that the trilateral meeting option was briefly mentioned but not elaborated on. “The Russian side has left this option completely without comment,” he remarked.

Ushakov emphasized the importance of preparing for a bilateral meeting with Trump, suggesting that success in that discussion should be the primary goal.

Zelensky also mentioned ongoing talks with German Prime Minister Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron, stating, “We are adjusting our position and considering the need for a unified European perspective on key security issues.” It’s evident that many elements hinge on the careful and effective actions of both Europe and the US moving forward.

Shifting Dynamics in European Leadership

Since Trump’s return to the White House earlier this year, Germany and France have stepped up in their leadership roles concerning European interests relating to the Ukraine conflict. As for the UK, it remains unclear whether Zelensky has engaged Prime Minister Keir Starmer in discussions about a trilateral meeting.