Article
Putin-Zelenskyy Summit Stalls as Trump Pushes Peace Amid Escalating Strikes and Diplomatic Tensions
Summary
Russia says no summit with Ukraine is planned, despite Trump’s push for peace. Zelenskyy accuses Moscow of evasion as strikes intensify and diplomatic efforts stall over key disagreements.
Efforts to organize a peace summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy have stalled, even with new pressure from United States President Donald Trump. No such meeting is being planned, according to Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, citing the absence of an agreed agenda. Lavrov alleged that Zelenskyy has rejected key proposals, including discussing NATO membership and territorial concessions.
Trump, following individual meetings with both leaders, has urged a summit to end the war, suggesting flexibility on some points. But Zelenskyy has accused Moscow of dodging negotiations while intensifying attacks, including a massive air raid that injured workers at a U.S.-owned factory in Ukraine.
The proposed summit faces logistical hurdles, including a global arrest warrant for Putin that makes travel difficult. Possible hosts that have been mooted include Switzerland, Austria, Hungary, Turkey, and Qatar. Trump's optimism despite Ukraine officials being doubtful and questioning the seriousness of Russia, and also fearing the summit could be used to lend legitimacy to Putin's demands.
Western allies, meanwhile, are working on postwar security guarantees for Ukraine, with defense chiefs outlining potential frameworks. Trump has said U.S. help could include air cover but not troops. Lavrov said any solution not involving Russia would be "a road to nowhere," underscoring the deep divide that still hinders the push for peace.