President-elect Donald J. Trump announced plans for a meeting with Russia’s President Vladimir Putin late Thursday. At a press briefing at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida, Trump mentioned, “President Putin wants to meet” and noted that arrangements are underway. He emphasized the importance of resolving the conflict, describing it as “a bloody mess.” Previously, Trump suggested that he would aim to end the war in Ukraine, which is nearing its third anniversary, within 24 hours of taking office.
Russia has expressed willingness to engage in diplomatic talks. On Friday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed that Putin is open to engaging with international leaders, including Trump, without preconditions, stressing the need for mutual political will.
While Moscow welcomes Trump’s attempts at dialogue, specifics regarding the meeting’s date remain undetermined.
Ukraine, facing battlefield setbacks, is attempting to resist Russian advances in its eastern regions. Still, Russian forces continue to make gains, recently claiming to have captured the front-line city of Kurakhove, near the key logistical hub of Pokrovsk.
Trump has adjusted his timeline for ending the conflict, now suggesting it can be resolved in six months, while his special envoy appointee, Keith Kellogg, targets 100 days.
Joe Biden announced an additional $500 million in military aid for Ukraine on Thursday.