In a bombshell claim, U.S. President Donald Trump declared that a face-to-face meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky “is going to happen,” despite the Kremlin drawing a red line. Russia insists such a summit should only occur to finalize a peace deal — not as part of ongoing negotiations.
Trump, who has taken a hard stance on pushing peace since taking office in January, recently threatened 100% secondary tariffs on Russia’s trading partners if no resolution is reached within 50 days. Meanwhile, Moscow demands Ukraine lift martial law, recognize territorial losses, and hold overdue elections. The Kremlin remains skeptical about Zelensky’s legitimacy post his expired term. While Kyiv has repeatedly pushed for a summit, Moscow says a meeting is only possible once substantial progress has been made. As tensions rise, Trump’s bold assertion adds drama to the already fragile diplomatic theatre unfolding between Russia and Ukraine.
