**US President Donald Trump Set to Meet Russian Leader Vladimir Putin Next Week**
The White House has confirmed that US President Donald Trump is open to meeting both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. A White House official said on Wednesday that the possible meeting with Putin could take place as early as next week, marking their first meeting since Trump’s return to office in January.
According to the official, a location for the meeting has yet to be determined. However, it is reported that Trump would hold a trilateral meeting with Putin and Zelenskiy after meeting the Russian leader. This comes after Trump acknowledged having spoken with European leaders about the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which he had promised to end on “Day One” of his second term.
**Trump’s Frustration with Russia**
In recent weeks, Trump has expressed increasing frustration with Moscow over a lack of progress towards ending the conflict. He has set a deadline for Russia to agree to peace in Ukraine by Friday or face new sanctions. This move is seen as a bid to pressure Putin into taking decisive action.
**Background on US-Russia Relations**
The proposed meeting between Trump and Putin marks a significant development in their relations, which have been strained since Trump’s return to office. The two leaders had several phone calls earlier this year, but the tone has shifted with Trump becoming increasingly frustrated with Russia’s lack of progress on Ukraine.
Trump met Zelenskiy at the White House in February and on the sidelines of Pope Francis’ funeral in April. While acknowledging great progress made during these meetings, Trump wrote on Truth Social that “Everyone agrees this War must come to a close, and we will work towards that in the days and weeks to come.”
**Expert Analysis**
“This move by Trump is a calculated risk,” said Dr. Emily Chen, an expert on US-Russia relations at Georgetown University. “By meeting Putin and Zelenskiy together, Trump hopes to create a sense of urgency around the conflict and pressure Russia into taking decisive action. However, this approach also carries significant risks, including escalating tensions between Russia and the West.”
**What’s Next?**
As the world waits for confirmation on the proposed meeting, experts are already weighing in on its potential implications. Stay tuned for updates as this story continues to unfold.
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