Trump Proposes Meeting Between Zelensky and Putin

President Donald Trump has announced plans for a “tripartite” meeting involving Ukrainian President Voldimi Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin, aimed at resolving the ongoing war between their countries. In a post on Truth Social on Monday evening, Trump described a recent summit he had with Zelensky and various European leaders as “very good” and mentioned he’d contacted Putin to set up what he called a decisive meeting.

“After that meeting, it will just be the two presidents and myself,” Trump stated. “Let’s be clear, this is just the beginning of a conflict that’s been dragging on for nearly four years.” He also noted that Vice President J.D. Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and special envoy Steve Witkov are involved in discussions with both Russia and Ukraine.

Following the meeting, Trump spoke to reporters, indicating that Zelensky was receptive to a meeting with Putin. There was uncertainty about whether this would be a bilateral or trilateral discussion, according to some reports.

“We have confirmed that the trilateral meeting is set,” Zelensky told reporters afterward. “And if Russia puts forth a proposal to the U.S. President, we could see a bilateral outcome, which might lead to a trilateral meeting. I emphasize that Ukraine will always pursue peace.” He also expressed thoughts on the level of leadership required for such discussions.

Furthermore, Zelensky condemned a recent Russian attack that claimed ten lives just before the meeting took place.

“Despite everything, the Russian war machine keeps taking lives,” Zelensky remarked. “This is why we are seeking support to put an end to the violence. We need reliable security assurances to ensure that Russia doesn’t gain any advantages from this conflict.”

Trump’s meeting with Zelensky came shortly after he spent time with Putin in Anchorage, Alaska on August 15, 2025. That meeting lasted about 2.5 to 3 hours, yet it did not conclude with a formal discussion on a ceasefire.