Trump considered meeting Putin in Rome amid Ukraine war; 'freeze' near - Poland PM; 3 dead in Russian strike
Donald Trump has shown interest in meeting with Vladimir Putin, although the meeting is not confirmed yet. Sources have revealed that Trump inquired with Italy about potentially hosting the meeting. Analysts caution that Washington may be misled. Meanwhile, Poland's Prime Minister believes a "freeze" in the war is imminent. Stay updated for more information.
A recent report suggests that the US and Russia are working towards a deal that would allow Moscow to retain territory seized in Ukraine. The White House, attributing the conflict to the previous administration, stated that Trump aims to end the fighting through negotiations. Special envoy Steve Witkoff met with Putin in Moscow at Trump's direction to discuss pathways to peace.
Former US Ambassador to Ukraine, John Herbst, doubts that Trump's sanctions threat against Putin will materialize. China's President Xi Jinping expressed satisfaction with US-Russia communication for resolving the Ukraine crisis diplomatically. Xi reiterated China's support for peace talks. Putin is expected to meet with Trump soon to seek an end to the conflict.
A potential truce between the US and Russia may allow Russia to retain seized territories in Ukraine. Both sides are working on an agreement for an upcoming summit, aiming to secure support from Ukraine and European allies. The deal would involve Russia halting attacks in certain regions. However, the terms are subject to change, and official comments are pending.
Experts cast doubt on the effectiveness of peace talks between Trump and Putin. Sergey Radchenko from Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies believes that Putin may outmaneuver Trump in negotiations. Radchenko suggests that Putin's objective is to pressure Zelenskyy into accepting Russian terms for peace. The outcome of a potential Trump-Putin meeting remains uncertain.
Vladimir Putin has discussed his meeting with US envoy Steve Witkoff and the potential summit with Donald Trump with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko. The venue for the meeting is yet to be determined, with sources indicating Italy as a possible host. Russian parliamentarians view the meeting positively, anticipating progress in resolving the conflict in Ukraine.
A former adviser to Putin stated that Putin is unlikely to meet with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy in the current peace talks stage. Speculation persists on whether Putin will agree to trilateral talks with Trump and Zelenskyy. Trump has engaged with Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni regarding the possibility of hosting a meeting with Putin in Rome. The Vatican City could be the venue if the meeting occurs.
Italy's potential role as a venue for Trump-Putin talks raises concerns due to the International Criminal Court's arrest warrant for Putin. Italy is obligated to arrest Putin under the Rome Statute if he enters the country. The warrant accuses Putin of unlawful actions in Ukraine. The ICC issued the warrant in March 2023.