ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates (AP) – President Donald Trump announced on Friday that he is taking steps to establish direct talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin as soon as possible. Trump’s call for a face-to-face meeting follows Putin's decision to skip peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine scheduled for Friday in Turkey.
During a wrap-up of his four-day visit to the Middle East, Trump stated, “I think it’s time for us to just do it.” He indicated he wasn't surprised by Putin's absence, suggesting that Putin “didn’t want to go because he’s not there.” Trump emphasized his commitment to meeting with Putin “as soon as we can set it up,” expressing urgency in the need for high-level dialogue.
In a personal note, Trump mentioned his desire to meet his newly born grandchild, indicating a balancing act between familial and national responsibilities. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed willingness to participate in talks amidst Trump’s calls for a peaceful resolution. However, Putin declined the opportunity to meet directly with Zelenskyy, complicating the situation further.
Trump continues to encourage both parties to arrive at a war-ending agreement. Zelenskyy has tentatively agreed to an American proposal for an initial 30-day ceasefire, yet Russia has yet to accept the terms and has persisted in its military operations targeting Ukraine. Even so, the nations are poised to engage in their first direct peace talks in three years in Istanbul, although expectations for immediate progress remain low.
Despite the challenges, Trump expressed resolve, stating, “He didn’t go, and I understand that. We’re going to get it done. We got to get it done. Five thousand young people are being killed every single week on average, and we’re going to get it done.” On Thursday, Trump had emphasized the necessity of a meeting with Putin as crucial to breaking the ongoing deadlock in negotiations.
Expressing urgency regarding the situation, Trump concluded, “I don’t believe anything’s going to happen whether you like it or not, until he and I get together. But we’re going to have to get it solved because too many people are dying.” This statement underscores Trump’s belief that direct engagement with Putin is essential for moving forward in resolving the conflict.
