Kremlin Discounts Zelenskyy Meeting as Trump Questions Putin’s Deal Intentions
Efforts to forge a peace deal are facing increased skepticism as diplomatic momentum falters. While U.S. President Donald Trump has raised the possibility that Russian President Vladimir Putin may not be interested in negotiating, Kremlin officials continue to deny talks with Ukraine’s leader are imminent. Kremlin Plays Down Summit Hopes The Kremlin has cautiously undermined speculation regarding an imminent summit between Putin and Zelenskyy. Moscow insists that any meeting must be preceded by thorough preparation at diplomatic and expert levels—a stark contrast to hopes of fast-tracked, high-level talks. Speaking publicly, Trump introduced a sobering note of realism: “We’re going to find out,” he remarked, suggesting that Putin may be reluctant to finalize a peace deal. Observers view Putin's contradictory signals as symptomatic of deeper strategic missteps. Putin's insistence on symbolic or territorial gains—paired with his continued rejection of Zelenskyy’s legitimacy—undermines […]
