High-Stakes Ukraine Peace Talks Move Toward Possible Putin–Zelenskyy Meeting

As tensions continue in Eastern Europe, diplomatic efforts appear to be gaining some traction. The White House and European leaders are reportedly working to arrange a face-to-face meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, with Budapest now being considered as a potential meeting location.

Trump Confirms No U.S. Troops on the Ground

U.S. President Donald Trump said this week that while the United States will not deploy American ground troops in Ukraine, the country is still open to providing air support and approving a massive $90 billion arms package to Kyiv. This approach signals a strong level of political support without direct military involvement.

Ukraine Remains Firm on Security and Borders

President Zelenskyy, backed by several European allies, has indicated that Ukraine will not accept any territorial concessions, and that any peace deal must include robust security guarantees covering land, air, and sea.

Meanwhile, Russian forces have intensified their attacks in areas like Kharkiv and Zaporizhzhia, highlighting the urgency of achieving real progress at the negotiation table.

Possible Direct Talks Soon

If confirmed, this would be the first direct Putin–Zelenskyy meeting since the invasion started. The choice of Budapest is symbolically neutral but politically delicate, especially among NATO countries wary of legitimizing any demands from Russia.

What’s Next?

• Meeting Location: Budapest is currently the most likely site.

• Main Obstacles: Russia wants land concessions; Ukraine refuses.

• U.S. Position: No troops, but large-scale arms support.

• Global Eyes: This meeting could set the tone for the rest of 2025.

These talks could represent either a major breakthrough or another diplomatic stalemate — but the world is watching closely.