Amid ongoing conflict and diplomatic rumors, the potential for a summit between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin is being scrutinized. This comes after mixed signals from various world leaders regarding the feasibility of such a meeting. President Donald Trump had expressed optimism that arrangements for the summit could be in place within weeks, yet the Kremlin’s more ambiguous communication suggests that the likelihood of a meeting is waning.
Since their last in-person interaction in 2019, neither leader has shared a space, with Zelensky stating that any discussions must first be backed by solid security guarantees from Kyiv's allies. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov's remarks that the Kremlin is open to negotiations, provided all key issues are resolved ahead of time, signal possible deadlock in the talks. His emphasis on "issues" being understood has raised concerns that Moscow's terms may be unacceptable to Ukraine.
Locations like Budapest, Geneva, and Istanbul have been floated as potential sites for this meeting, but opinions differ on their neutrality and suitability. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto has extended an invitation, offering to facilitate talks in Hungary; however, Zelensky expressed skepticism due to Hungary’s historical stance on Ukrainian issues, making Budapest a contentious option.
French President Emmanuel Macron suggested Switzerland, known for its diplomatic neutrality, while Zelensky considered Vienna as a possibility amidst mixed reactions from European leaders. With the International Criminal Court’s warrant for Putin complicating matters, immunity assurances would be necessary should he agree to travel for discussions.
Even as speculation heightens around a summit, fighting continues unabated in Ukraine, with recent reports of heavy Russian bombardments and Ukrainian offensive actions. Both sides appear entrenched in their positions, pointing to a lack of genuine willingness for peace talks. Ukrainian leaders urge continued pressure on Moscow to prioritize negotiations and halt the ongoing violence, signaling that while discussions remain on the table, a breakthrough seems distant.
