**Trump Hints at Meeting with Putin, Ukraine Insists on Ceasefire**
U.S. President Donald Trump has suggested that he may meet Russian President Vladimir Putin “shortly” after his trip to Saudi Arabia and the Middle East in May. When asked if the meeting would take place during his visit to the region between May 13-16, Trump replied that it’s possible but unlikely. He added that he thinks they will meet with him shortly thereafter.
This development comes as Ukraine continues to insist on an immediate, full, and unconditional ceasefire in the war-torn country. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reaffirmed this demand on April 23, emphasizing that any agreement must be based on Russia’s withdrawal of its troops from Ukrainian soil.
The possibility of a meeting between Trump and Putin has been a subject of speculation for some time now. Despite ongoing ceasefire negotiations, the two leaders have yet to have direct contact, communicating only through their officials. Trump’s last in-person encounter with Putin was during the 2018 Helsinki Summit.
**A Meeting After Ceasefire Agreement?**
Trump’s advisers have been adamant that any conversation with Putin should take place after Russia agrees to a ceasefire in Ukraine. U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff is expected to meet Putin in Moscow on April 25, as part of ongoing diplomatic efforts to bring an end to the conflict.
Earlier in the day, Trump expressed optimism about a potential deal between Russia and Ukraine to end the war. However, it remains unclear whether such an agreement would be based on concessions that Ukraine has not been willing to make so far. The U.S. is reportedly weighing recognizing Russian control of Crimea, which has sparked concerns among Ukrainian officials.
**Ukraine’s Position**
Ukraine has already agreed to a full 30-day ceasefire proposed by the United States, pending Russia’s agreement to similar terms. However, Moscow has thus far refused to accept this proposal. Ukraine’s position remains firm: any agreement must be based on an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, with no compromises on sovereignty or territorial integrity.
As tensions between Russia and Ukraine continue to escalate, the possibility of a meeting between Trump and Putin takes on added significance. Will such a meeting pave the way for a lasting peace in Ukraine, or will it merely legitimize Russia’s actions? Only time will tell.
