A potential meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and former US President Donald Trump is in the works, with expectations that it may take place in Saudi Arabia. This revelation comes from US President's Special Representative Steve Witkoff, who expressed optimism during an interview with Bloomberg. He stated, "...my best bet on it is that it probably will happen," further suggesting that discussions aimed at a comprehensive ceasefire in Ukraine could reach fruition within weeks.
The backdrop to this diplomatic evolution involves a recent meeting between US and Ukrainian delegations in Saudi Arabia, where they addressed ongoing military support and collaboration. Notably, the Office of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy published a joint statement alongside the US following those discussions, emphasizing Kyiv's willingness to agree to a 30-day ceasefire suggested by the US. The statement also included a commitment from the US not to indefinitely delay intelligence-sharing and to resume military supplies to Ukraine.
In a continuing thread of communication, Yuriy Ushakov, Aide to the Russian President, commented on the ceasefire proposal, indicating it would require adjustments to reflect Russian interests. He labeled the suggested truce as merely a temporary respite for Ukrainian forces. Meanwhile, Witkoff, who is also involved in negotiations with both Russian and Ukrainian representatives, indicated that discussions over a full truce are anticipated to take place shortly.
Recent telephone conversations between Trump and Putin also played a critical role, wherein they explored potential actions such as a mutual cessation of attacks on energy facilities for the next 30 days. Witkoff noted, "During our conversation, we talked about how to save lives, how to end this slaughter," thereby emphasizing the grave stakes involved in the discourse surrounding the conflict.
Yet, while Witkoff remains hopeful about an impending ceasefire, the Kremlin has voiced caution regarding commitments made by the Ukrainian side. Dmitry Peskov, Press Secretary for Putin, acknowledged that the notion of a summit in Saudi Arabia is a possibility but stressed that no concrete plans are currently in place. Instead, he indicated a "general understanding" that such a meeting could occur in the future.
As part of the evolving situation, Russian military leadership has expressed intentions to comply with a commitment to scale back attacks on energy infrastructure. Putin, during phone discussions, is reported to have stated, "Russia is going to adhere to its commitment to not hit energy infrastructure." However, these assertions have been contested by Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, who argued that Russia has violated earlier promises, pointing to attacks on energy facilities this week as an example.
Looking ahead, Witkoff remarked that the delegation from the US would meet with the Russians in Saudi Arabia on March 23, 2025, although this has not been publicly confirmed by Russian officials. Both sides are reportedly working to finalize a timetable for these vital discussions. Zelenskyy has stated that Ukrainian representatives will participate in technical meetings to delve into the specifics surrounding a potential cessation of hostilities.
Moreover, if a ceasefire is established, Witkoff has echoed sentiments circulating in discussions that the US might ease certain sanctions against Russia. This has created a complex dynamic, where negotiations continue amid mutual mistrust and urgent calls for resolution. In particular, Zelenskyy expressed hope that should Russia refuse to agree to the truce, pressure might be amplified on the Kremlin through enhanced economic sanctions, stating, "I hope if Russia does not agree to the truce, Trump will increase pressure on them through sanctions."
As the diplomatic landscape shifts with the possibility of a Trump-Putin summit looming, the intricate web of negotiations on the Ukrainian front reflects the delicate balance of power and the dire humanitarian implications of protracted conflict. It remains to be seen how forthcoming either country will be in terms of concession, and whether the ambitious timelines proposed by Witkoff will materialize into tangible outcomes for peace.
