The Kremlin states that Russia and the U.S. are arranging further discussions
The Kremlin spokesman says the two leaders could speak again by phone if needed
The Kremlin announced on Wednesday that preparations were underway for expert-level discussions between Russia and the United States. These talks would build on a recent high-level meeting and an earlier phone conversation between Presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov reaffirmed that both leaders had agreed on the need for an in-person meeting following thorough preparations. However, he noted that no specifics had been determined regarding the timing or location of such a meeting.
Peskov stated that while another phone call between Putin and Trump remained a possibility, no such plans were currently in place. "Contacts are being prepared at the expert level through the foreign affairs ministries," he said, without offering further details.
Trump has expressed a strong desire to broker a ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine war as soon as possible. His swift efforts to mend ties with Moscow—reversing the approach of the previous administration under Joe Biden—have sparked concerns in Kyiv and among European allies that Ukraine’s interests may be sidelined.
This week, Putin sought to temper expectations for a quick resolution on Ukraine, emphasizing that initial US-Russia discussions would focus on rebuilding trust between the two countries.
Peskov declined to comment on reports of a minerals agreement between the US and Ukraine. Trump has suggested that such a deal would help the US recover taxpayer funds provided to Ukraine during the war.
The Kremlin spokesman also acknowledged reports that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy was expected to meet with Trump on Friday.
"Whether this visit will involve the signing of the mentioned agreement or something else remains to be seen. There have been no official statements on this matter yet," Peskov said.
A source familiar with the draft agreement told Reuters on Tuesday that it does not include any US security guarantees or commitments to continue providing weapons. However, it affirms that the United States wants Ukraine to remain "free, sovereign, and secure."
