Kremlin Dismisses Zelensky’s Proposal for Trump-Putin Meeting

 The Kremlin rejected a proposal by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on May 26, 2025, for a trilateral meeting involving U.S. President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and himself to address the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

Zelensky suggested the meeting during a video address, arguing that Trump’s pledge to end the conflict quickly could be tested through direct talks. The Kremlin’s spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, dismissed the idea, stating that Russia would only engage in negotiations based on its strategic interests, not external proposals.

Zelensky’s call came amid uncertainty over U.S. policy following Trump’s inauguration, with the U.S. leader advocating for a swift resolution but offering no clear plan. Russia’s rejection reflects its stance that Ukraine must accept terms like ceding occupied territories, a demand Kyiv rejects. The war, in its third year, has killed tens of thousands and displaced millions, with recent Russian advances in Donetsk intensifying pressure on Ukraine. Zelensky’s proposal aimed to leverage Trump’s influence, but analysts see it as a long shot given Russia’s hardline position.

The rejection has deepened pessimism about peace prospects, with European leaders urging increased military support for Ukraine. In Ukraine, citizens expressed frustration, viewing the Kremlin’s response as a sign of intransigence. Trump has not publicly commented, but his advisors suggest he favors bilateral talks with Putin, excluding Zelensky. The situation underscores the complexity of resolving the conflict, with diplomatic efforts stalled and military escalation continuing.