On August 7, the Kremlin confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin could meet US President Donald Trump next week and preparations are underway.
Yuri Ushakov, Kremlin's foreign policy assistant, said Moscow and Washington had reached a principle agreement to host a bilateral summit. The meeting is scheduled to take place next week, but the location and specific time have not been disclosed.
According to Mr. Ushakov, Moscow is discussing in detail with Washington about the plan to hold the meeting. When asked about the proposal to hold a tripartite meeting attended by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, he declined to comment.
Previously, US special missionary Steve Witkoff visited Moscow and had a nearly 3-hour meeting with President Putin on August 6. The Kremlin assessed the discussion as utile and constructive, focusing on the conflict in Ukraine and the prospects for improving relations between the two powers.
President Trump also confirmed that there is a "good chance" for an early meeting with Mr. Putin. He said the meeting between Witkoff and Putin had made great progress.
According to Mr. Trump, all sides agreed that the conflict in Ukraine should end soon and he pledged to make efforts in that direction in the coming days and weeks.
The White House also affirmed that President Trump is ready to meet both President Putin and President Zelensky.
The fact that the two leaders of Russia and the US are planning to meet is considered a positive signal in the context of recent signs of tension in relations between the two countries. President Trump has issued an ultimatum, demanding that Russia reach a ceasefire with Ukraine before August 8, otherwise it will face sanctions.
Previously, three rounds of direct talks between Russia and Ukraine in Turkey did not bring results on a ceasefire, despite strong urging from Mr. Trump.
