Donald Trump Seeks to Facilitate Meeting Between Putin and Zelensky After EU Leaders’ Meeting

Web Editor

August 18, 2025

a man in a suit and tie making a face with a microphone in front of him and a rainbow flag behind hi

Background on Key Figures

Donald Trump, the former President of the United States, has been actively involved in diplomatic efforts concerning the Ukraine conflict. Volodymyr Zelensky, the current President of Ukraine, has been at the forefront of negotiations to end the ongoing war. Vladimir Putin, the President of Russia, holds significant influence over the situation due to his country’s involvement in Ukraine.

Trump’s Recent Diplomatic Efforts

On Monday, Trump held a meeting with Zelensky and leaders from the European Union (EU). Following this gathering, Trump engaged in a telephone conversation with Putin to initiate preparations for a meeting between the Russian leader and Zelensky.

Key Points from Trump’s Statements

  • Positive Assessment of the Meeting: Trump described his meeting with Zelensky and EU leaders as “very good.”
  • Security Guarantees for Ukraine: The discussion focused on security guarantees for Ukraine, provided by European countries in coordination with the United States.
  • Preparations for Putin-Zelensky Meeting: Trump announced that he had started preparations for a meeting between Putin and Zelensky, with Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff leading the efforts.

Putin’s Willingness to Meet with Zelensky

According to a source familiar with the telephone conversation, Putin expressed his readiness to meet with Zelensky during their discussion. This willingness was conveyed while Trump was hosting Zelensky and other European leaders at the White House.

Previous Attempts to Resolve the Conflict

Trump and Putin previously met in Alaska to seek an agreement to end the war in Ukraine. Putin communicated his openness to meeting with Zelensky during their recent conversation, signaling a potential step towards resolving the conflict.

Key Questions and Answers

  • Who are the key figures involved? Donald Trump, former US President; Volodymyr Zelensky, current President of Ukraine; Vladimir Putin, President of Russia.
  • What was the purpose of Trump’s recent meetings and calls? To facilitate a meeting between Putin and Zelensky and discuss security guarantees for Ukraine.
  • What was the outcome of Trump’s conversation with Putin? Putin expressed his willingness to meet with Zelensky.