The developments come amid intensified international efforts to find a resolution to the four-year-long Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Washington/Florida (US), BNN Web Staff: US President Donald Trump has indicated that he expects to hold discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the near future, even as he prepares for a crucial meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Florida on Sunday.
The developments come amid intensified international efforts to find a resolution to the four-year-long Russia-Ukraine conflict.
In an interview with Politico on Friday, Trump expressed optimism about his anticipated engagement with the Russian leader, saying he looks forward to speaking with Putin “soon” and believes the interaction will be constructive. Trump conveyed confidence that the dialogue could move in a positive direction.
The remarks followed confirmation by Zelenskyy that he would meet Trump in Florida, where the US President is expected to play a mediating role in ongoing peace efforts.
Addressing reporters, Zelenskyy said the talks could help narrow differences and advance negotiations, though he cautioned against expecting an immediate breakthrough.
According to reports, Zelenskyy noted that a 20-point peace framework jointly developed by US and Ukrainian officials is nearly complete. He said discussions with Trump would centre on long-term security assurances for Ukraine and the role of allied nations in maintaining post-war stability.
However, Trump asserted that any final peace agreement between Kyiv and Moscow would ultimately require his consent. Speaking to Politico, he said that no deal would move forward without his approval, underscoring his central role in the negotiation process.
Trump and Putin last spoke by phone in October, a conversation described by the White House as lengthy and productive.
During that call, Putin reportedly congratulated Trump on facilitating a ceasefire related to the Gaza conflict. White House officials said multiple global issues were discussed during the more than two-hour conversation.
Earlier this month, Russia’s top foreign policy adviser Yury Ushakov held extended talks with US representatives Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner as part of ongoing diplomatic efforts to advance peace negotiations over Ukraine.
Meanwhile, tensions on the ground remain high. Kyiv was hit by a major missile and drone attack overnight on December 27, just a day before the scheduled Trump-Zelenskyy meeting.
Multiple explosions were reported across the Ukrainian capital and nearby regions.
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko confirmed the strikes, urging residents to remain in shelters as air defence systems were activated.
Reports indicated that Russia launched a combination of hypersonic, ballistic, and cruise missiles during the assault, highlighting the fragile security situation even as diplomatic efforts continue.
