Trump Signals Possible Meeting with Putin as Saudi Peace Talks Approach

"I believe he wants to end it, and they both want a resolution quickly," says Trump

By M Muzamil Shami - February 17, 2025

      Trump discusses potential Putin meeting as Saudi peace talks gain momentum.

Former US President Donald Trump has hinted at the possibility of meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin "very soon," asserting that Putin is keen to bring an end to the ongoing war in Ukraine, AFP reported.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump stated that while no specific date has been finalized, discussions for a potential meeting are underway.

His remarks came shortly after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio cautioned against high expectations for the upcoming Saudi-led peace talks in Riyadh, which aim to address the prolonged war.

Rubio, who is leading the US delegation in negotiations with Russian diplomats in Saudi Arabia, is actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to end the devastating conflict that has persisted for nearly three years.

Trump highlighted that his diplomatic team, including Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, has been in continuous dialogue with Russian officials. A recent meeting between Witkoff and Putin lasted three hours, emphasizing the depth of the ongoing negotiations.

According to Trump, Putin appears eager for a resolution, with both the Russian and Ukrainian leadership, including President Volodymyr Zelensky, seeking a swift end to hostilities.

However, Trump dismissed Zelensky’s recent concerns about Russia potentially targeting a weakened NATO should US support for the alliance diminish.

Despite Trump's confidence, Rubio acknowledged that peace efforts will not yield immediate results, citing the complexity of the conflict and ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Rubio further clarified that "nothing has been finalized" regarding the structure of the negotiations, and Ukraine's direct involvement in the Saudi talks remains uncertain.

Meanwhile, Trump and Putin have reportedly agreed during a recent phone call to initiate ceasefire discussions. However, NATO allies and Ukraine remain skeptical about Russia’s commitment to de-escalation.