Breaking: Putin and Zelensky Agree to Meet, Is Peace on the Horizon?
The White House has indicated that Russian and Ukrainian leaders may soon meet to address ongoing conflicts, with potential U.S. involvement and Budapest as a possible location. The development signals a push for diplomatic resolution amid global tensions.
The White House revealed on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, that Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed willingness to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the near future, following a recent conversation with President Trump. White House spokesperson Caroline Leavitt shared this development during a press briefing, stating, “President Vladimir Putin conveyed to President Trump during their discussion last night that he is prepared to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the coming weeks. The United States government and the Trump administration are collaborating with Russia and Ukraine to make this meeting a reality at this moment.” This announcement marks a potential breakthrough in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, now in its third year since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in February 2022.
According to Politico, Budapest is under consideration as a potential venue, with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, a figure close to both leaders, potentially facilitating the summit. An official from the U.S. administration confirmed to the outlet that the Secret Service has already initiated preparations for the event. During the briefing, a reporter noted the Kremlin’s ambiguous stance, suggesting Putin has not fully committed, to which Leavitt responded, “I can assure you that the efforts are ongoing.” The White House clarified that no U.S. ground troops will be deployed to Ukraine, though Leavitt left room for military options, saying, “I certainly won’t rule out anything regarding the military possibilities available to the President,” hinting at possible U.S. air support.
In a Fox News interview, Trump emphasized Europe’s readiness to provide ground forces, while positioning the U.S. as a key air power contributor. “No one has what we have in this area, truly, they don’t,” he boasted, reflecting a strategic focus amid tensions following the June 2025 Israel-Iran air war and the broader geopolitical landscape. The proposed summit, if realized, could reshape peace negotiations, with Budapest’s selection reflecting Orbán’s mediation role, though challenges remain given the conflict’s complexity and historical mistrust.