MOSCOW – The Kremlin announced on Wednesday that preparations are underway for expert-level discussions between Russia and the United States, following a high-level meeting last week and an earlier phone conversation between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed that both leaders agreed on the need for a face-to-face meeting, although no specifics on timing or location have been finalized. “Contacts are being prepared at the expert level through the ministries of foreign affairs,” Peskov stated, without revealing additional details. He added that another phone call between the two presidents could occur if necessary, but no plans are currently in place.
Trump’s push for a swift ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine war has signaled a significant shift from the policy of his predecessor, Joe Biden, sparking concerns in Kyiv and among European allies that they may be sidelined in future negotiations. Despite Trump’s urgency, Putin tempered expectations for an immediate peace deal, emphasizing that initial U.S.-Russia discussions would prioritize rebuilding trust between Moscow and Washington.
Amid speculation about a potential minerals agreement between the U.S. and Ukraine, Peskov declined to comment. Trump has hinted that such a deal could help the U.S. recover funds spent on aiding Ukraine during the conflict. A source familiar with the draft agreement stated that it does not include U.S. security guarantees or commitments for continued military support but affirms Washington’s support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and security.
Peskov also noted reports of an upcoming visit by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to meet with Trump on Friday. “Whether it will be to sign the aforementioned agreement or something else, we’ll see. There have been no official statements on this matter yet,” he remarked.
As diplomatic preparations continue, the international community is closely watching the evolving U.S.-Russia dynamic and its implications for the future of the Russia-Ukraine war and global security.