Former U.S. President Donald Trump believes that a direct meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukraine’s Vladimir Zelensky is bound to happen, though the Kremlin maintains it should only occur to conclude a comprehensive peace deal.
During remarks to reporters on Friday, Trump was asked what might prompt a face-to-face between the two wartime leaders—possibly with him also present. “It’s going to take place,” Trump responded. “It should have already happened months ago, but it will.”
Trump has been advocating for an end to the conflict since stepping into office in January. Earlier this month, he threatened sweeping secondary tariffs—up to 100%—on countries continuing trade with Moscow unless a resolution is achieved by early September, giving a 50-day window.
Russia has said it remains open to peace negotiations, but insists the discussions must resolve the fundamental causes of the war. Its core demands include Ukraine adopting a neutral stance, accepting the current territorial status, and agreeing to disarmament and “denazification.”
Zelensky has consistently urged for a personal meeting with Putin. The proposal was brought up again during recent talks in Istanbul, where Ukrainian officials called it a necessary step toward stopping hostilities. The Kremlin has not dismissed the idea outright, but stresses the importance of preparatory work before such a summit.
Kremlin press secretary Dmitry Peskov reiterated that progress must be made through formal negotiation channels before any leader-level meeting. “It can’t go the other way around,” he noted.
Russia has also questioned Zelensky’s legitimacy. His term as president officially ended in May 2024, but he has delayed elections, citing martial law. Russian officials have raised doubts about the legality of any agreements he signs under these circumstances. Putin has said he’s open to meeting him, but only once peace talks are close to completion.
As part of any permanent ceasefire, Russia is also demanding the lifting of martial law in Ukraine and the scheduling of national elections within a 100-day period.
