A scheduled meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin has been postponed due to Moscow’s refusal to agree to an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine, creating uncertainty around diplomatic efforts. A senior White House official confirmed that there are currently no immediate plans for President Trump to meet with President Putin following a productive phone call between Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.
President Trump had previously announced intentions to meet with Putin in Hungary to address the conflict in Ukraine, but Putin’s stance on concessions has hindered progress. Moscow has insisted on Ukraine conceding more territory before agreeing to a ceasefire. When asked about the possibility of a summit, Trump expressed reluctance to have an unproductive meeting but hinted at potential developments in the near future.
Despite the postponement of the meeting, preparations for a summit are ongoing, as indicated by Kirill Dmitriev, Putin’s investment envoy. Russia reiterated its terms for a peace deal in a private communication with the U.S., emphasizing its demand for full control of the contentious eastern Donbas region. European leaders have urged the U.S. to stand firm in advocating for an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine based on the current battle lines for future negotiations.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte visited Washington for discussions with President Trump, focusing on the ceasefire in Ukraine and subsequent peace talks. While both sides have not confirmed a specific date for the summit, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized the need for thorough preparation before such a meeting can take place. The Europeans are closely monitoring the situation, concerned that a meeting between Trump and Putin could occur without substantial concessions from the Russian side.
President Zelenskyy of Ukraine expressed disappointment over the delay in a decision on providing Tomahawk missiles to his country, leading to a decrease in Russian interest in diplomacy. Despite the challenges in summit preparations, Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of starting negotiations from the current battlefield positions. European leaders have shown support for Trump’s stance on an immediate ceasefire and using existing frontlines as the basis for peace talks.
The potential meeting between Trump and Putin in Budapest has raised concerns within the EU due to Hungary’s warm relations with Russia. There are logistical challenges, including airspace issues, with Poland suggesting the possibility of intercepting Putin’s plane, while Bulgaria has offered its airspace for the meeting. Despite uncertainties, diplomatic efforts continue to address the conflict in Ukraine and seek a peaceful resolution.
