Preparations for a Putin-Trump Meeting
Preparations for a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump are reportedly at an "advanced stage," according to Russian state news agency RIA. The agency quoted senior lawmaker Leonid Slutsky, head of the Duma's international affairs committee, who claimed the meeting could take place as early as February or March.
This news comes just days after Trump's inauguration for his second term on January 20th. During his inauguration speech, Trump called on Putin to begin talks to end the war in Ukraine. He stated that Putin was "destroying Russia" by not making a deal and that he believed Putin would be "very well off" to end the war. Trump also confirmed plans to meet with Putin, though he did not provide a specific timeline.
The US President has also threatened the Kremlin with new sanctions if Putin doesn't stop the war. The White House is actively working to bring about a ceasefire and is expected to reveal its plan at the Munich Security Conference next week. According to Bloomberg, the plan includes potentially freezing the conflict and the territory occupied by Russian forces, while providing Ukraine with concrete security guarantees to prevent future attacks.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed confidence in Trump's ability to broker a ceasefire, although the Kremlin has shown little interest in ending hostilities so far. Zelensky has stated that he would demand US troops be part of any Western peacekeeping force sent to police any future ceasefire.
7 Comments
Ongania
“It’s extremely concerning that this high-level meeting could undermine Ukraine’s security, as Trump’s focus seems misplaced.”
Manolo Noriega
“I’m optimistic that a Putin-Trump meeting may force Putin to rethink his actions in Ukraine. Peace is the only way forward.”
Ongania
“This is just another example of turning a blind eye to Putin’s aggression. A meeting won’t change his behavior.”
Manolo Noriega
“If holding a meeting can freeze the conflict even temporarily, it could provide Ukraine with the breathing room it desperately needs.”
Ongania
“I’m disappointed that Trump is even entertaining talks with Putin when the Ukrainian people deserve stronger support.”
Raphael
“While the situation is complex, initiating talks is better than stagnation. This could be a turning point for international relations.”
Barachiel
“Appeasing Putin is a recipe for more instability. We should be holding him accountable, not inviting him to the negotiation table.”