Login to Continue Learning
The Kremlin has advocated for elections in Ukraine, calling Zelensky an “illegitimate ruler,” as Ukraine cannot hold elections while under martial law. However, Zelensky remains open to holding elections if the war ends safely.
Trump announced that the location and date are “to be determined.” German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that a meeting would take place within two weeks. Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and presidential envoy Steve Witkoff are coordinating with Russia and Ukraine.
The upcoming meeting will mark the first time Zelensky meets Putin since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in early 2022. Ukrainian officials predict it will be an emotionally challenging meeting for Zelensky. Neil Melvin from the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) think tank suggests that this opportunity allows Zelensky to clearly convey the costs and anger felt by Ukraine.
However, optimism about genuine progress is tempered by Russia’s demands being incompatible with Ukraine’s red lines. If the Kremlin stalls, it risks provoking Trump as he pursues his peacemaker agenda. Trump has so far been reluctant to impose new sanctions on Russia for peace negotiations.
Related Post
Switzerland expressed interest in hosting the meeting if arranged.
