Trump wants to hold trilateral meeting with Putin, Zelensky on Aug 22: Report - World News
hurriyetdailynews.com -- Sunday, August 17, 2025, 3:24:19 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: U.S.–Russia Relations, Foreign Policy & International Relations, Social Media & Public Statements
U.S. President Donald Trump aims to hold a trilateral meeting with his Russian and Ukrainian counterparts as early as Aug. 22, the Axios news site reported Saturday.
Following his summit Friday with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, Trump told European leaders during a phone call that he wants to arrange a meeting with Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Trump is scheduled to meet with Zelensky at the White House on Monday and has invited European leaders to attend.
Putin has yet to publicly confirm his participation in the proposed summit.
Trump and Putin held a key summit in Anchorage, Alaska on Friday, marking the first face-to-face meeting between the two leaders since Russia's invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022. It was also Putin's first time on U.S. soil for talks with a U.S. president since 2007.
Putin said during a press conference following the summit that he and Trump had come to reach an "understanding."
Trump, for his part, said they made "some headway" but acknowledged they did not reach an agreement to end the ongoing conflict.
Meanwhile, Trump dropped his push for a ceasefire in Ukraine in favor of pursuing a full peace accord -- a major shift announced hours after his summit with Putin.
Prior to the high-stakes meeting in Alaska, securing an immediate cessation of hostilities had been a core demand of Trump -- who had threatened "severe consequences" on Russia -- and European leaders, including Zelensky, who will now visit Washington on Monday.
The shift away from ceasefire would seem to favor Putin, who has long argued for negotiations on a final peace deal -- a strategy that Ukraine and its European allies have criticized as a way to buy time and press Russia's battlefield advances.
Trump spoke with Zelensky and European leaders on his flight back to Washington, saying afterward that "it was determined by all that the best way to end the horrific war between Russia and Ukraine is to go directly to a peace agreement which would end the war."
Ceasefire agreements "often times do not hold up," Trump added on his Truth Social platform.
This new development "complicates the situation," Zelensky said Saturday.
If Moscow lacks "the will to carry out a simple order to stop the strikes, it may take a lot of effort to get Russia to have the will to implement far greater -- -- peaceful coexistence with its neighbors for decades," he said on social media.
European pressure
The leaders of France, Britain and Germany are due to host a video call Sunday for their so-called "coalition of the willing" to discuss the way forward.
In an earlier statement, they welcomed the plan for a Trump-Putin-Zelensky summit but added that they would maintain pressure on Russia in the absence of a ceasefire.
Meanwhile, the conflict in Ukraine raged on, with Kiev announcing Saturday that Russia had launched 85 attack drones and a ballistic missile during the night.
Back in Moscow, Putin said his summit talks with Trump had been "timely" and "very useful."
In his post-summit statement in Alaska, Putin had warned Ukraine and European countries not to engage in any "behind-the-scenes intrigues" that could disrupt what he called "this emerging progress."
Sign Our PetitionThe recent announcement regarding a proposed trilateral meeting between former President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is emblematic of the complexities surrounding international diplomacy in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. In a political landscape marked by shifting alliances and dramatically evolving strategies, this meeting could represent a significant pivot not only for U.S.-Russia relations but also for the future of Ukraine itself. Trump's previous insistence on a ceasefire, which he has now seemingly abandoned in favor of pursuing a broader peace accord, raises critical questions about the motivations behind such a shift and its implications for the Ukrainian people.
Historically, the roots of the conflict in Ukraine can be traced back to a combination of geopolitical tensions, historical grievances, and the struggle for national sovereignty. Since Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the onset of the war in the Donbas region, Ukraine has fought valiantly to defend its territorial integrity. The situation has drawn in various international actors, including NATO and the European Union, who have provided varying degrees of support to Ukraine. This backdrop is essential to understanding how Trump's recent pivot may undermine the very principles of self-determination and justice that have guided international responses to aggression.
Trump's decision to downplay the urgency of a ceasefire in favor of a peace agreement raises alarms, particularly in light of the power dynamics at play. Historically, peace negotiations often favor the aggressor when not approached with care. In this case, Putin has consistently sought to reshape the narrative and assert influence over Ukraine through a series of calculated military and diplomatic maneuvers. Trump's shift may inadvertently bolster Putin's position, giving him an opportunity to dictate terms under the guise of seeking peace. For those advocating for Ukrainian sovereignty, this is a dangerous precedent that could not only prolong the conflict but also embolden other authoritarian regimes to pursue similar strategies elsewhere.
Moreover, European leaders' cautious welcome of Trump's proposed summit highlights the delicate balance they are trying to maintain in the face of ongoing Russian aggression. While they express an eagerness to engage in dialogue, they also recognize the necessity of maintaining pressure on Russia to deter further incursions. This duality speaks to a broader issue: the need for a cohesive and unified response to authoritarianism that does not compromise the principles of democratic governance and human rights. As the conflict continues to unfold, the importance of international solidarity becomes ever more pronounced, especially as regions around the globe grapple with similar threats to democracy.
As we consider the implications of this proposed trilateral meeting, it is essential to frame the conversation in terms of social justice and the protection of human rights. The ongoing devastation in Ukraine is not just a geopolitical concern; it is a humanitarian crisis that affects millions of lives. The voices of Ukrainian citizens, who have borne the brunt of this conflict, must be amplified in any discussions of peace. A genuine peace process must prioritize the needs and rights of the people directly impacted by the violence, ensuring their agency and participation in determining their nation’s future.
In conclusion, Trump's proposed trilateral meeting with Putin and Zelensky is a critical moment that requires scrutiny and active engagement from those concerned with justice and democracy. The stakes are high, not just for Ukraine but for the international order as a whole. The left must remain vigilant in advocating for a peace process that truly serves the interests of the people rather than allowing the dynamics of power politics to overshadow the imperative of justice and self-determination. As discussions unfold, it is crucial to remain steadfast in the belief that peace should not come at the expense of fundamental rights and freedoms, both in Ukraine and globally.
The proposed trilateral meeting between Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin, and Volodymyr Zelensky, as reported, raises significant concerns regarding the shifting dynamics of international diplomacy surrounding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Trump's abrupt pivot from advocating for an immediate ceasefire to pursuing a comprehensive peace agreement, particularly after his summit with Putin, highlights a troubling trend in U.S. foreign policy that prioritizes negotiations over the immediate cessation of hostilities. Historically, ceasefires have been a crucial first step toward peace in many conflicts. However, Trump's dismissal of such agreements in favor of a more ambitious, yet vague, peace accord could embolden Russian aggression while undermining Ukraine's sovereignty.
The backdrop of this meeting is critical to understanding its implications. Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, international response has been largely characterized by a united front among Western nations, emphasizing strong sanctions against Russia and military support for Ukraine. The shift in Trump’s rhetoric signals a possible fracture in this coalition, suggesting a desire for compromise that may not align with the realities on the ground. Ukraine's struggle for territorial integrity and national identity is not merely a political issue; it is one that resonates deeply with the principles of self-determination and democratic governance. The potential for an agreement that does not guarantee Ukraine's security could lead to long-term instability in the region.
As engaged citizens, it is vital for Americans to critically analyze and discuss the implications of such diplomatic moves. One concrete action we can take is to advocate for a clear and principled U.S. foreign policy that prioritizes human rights and the sovereignty of nations over expedient negotiations. Engaging with local representatives to express our concerns and push for a robust support system for Ukraine is essential. By mobilizing grassroots movements, we can counter narratives that favor compromising with aggressors, emphasizing instead the need for solidarity with those fighting against oppression.
Furthermore, education plays a pivotal role in shaping public discourse around foreign policy. To effectively engage with right-wing perspectives that may laud Trump's approach, it is crucial to emphasize historical precedents where appeasement led to further conflict, rather than resolution. Discussions about the consequences of previous negotiations that undermined sovereignty would provide a counter-narrative to claims that peace can be achieved by yielding to aggressors. An informed public can better challenge the notion that all diplomacy is inherently positive, especially when it involves compromising the rights and autonomy of nations.
Finally, we must recognize the importance of a multilateral approach to resolving the conflict in Ukraine. While Trump’s meeting may intend to simplify the dialogue, it risks reducing a complex geopolitical issue to a singular negotiation. Engaging with European allies and other international stakeholders is essential to ensure that any resolution is comprehensive and respects the agency of Ukraine. By advocating for a robust international coalition that supports Ukraine's sovereignty and holds Russia accountable, we can work toward a lasting peace that does not sacrifice the principles of justice and human rights. In this way, we can engage thoughtfully with the discourse surrounding U.S. foreign policy and ensure that the voices of those affected by conflict are heard and prioritized.
The geopolitical landscape surrounding the conflict in Ukraine is complex and fraught with urgent humanitarian implications. Given the recent developments involving President Trump's proposed trilateral meeting with Presidents Putin and Zelensky, it's vital to engage actively as concerned citizens. Here’s a detailed list of actions we can take:
### Personal Actions
1. **Educate Yourself and Others** - Stay informed about the ongoing conflict, including its historical context, current events, and the humanitarian impacts. Share insights with friends, family, and colleagues to raise awareness.
2. **Advocate for Ceasefire and Diplomacy** - Write letters or emails to your representatives advocating for a strong stance on ceasefire agreements and diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict peacefully.
3. **Support Humanitarian Organizations** - Donate to or volunteer with organizations providing aid to those affected by the war in Ukraine. Examples include the International Committee of the Red Cross, Doctors Without Borders, and local NGOs.
### Specific Actions
1. **Petition for Diplomatic Efforts** - Create or sign petitions calling for immediate ceasefire negotiations. Websites like Change.org or MoveOn.org are platforms where such petitions can be initiated or supported.
Example Petition: "Call for a Ceasefire in Ukraine" - Link: [Change.org](https://www.change.org)
2. **Contact Local Representatives** - Reach out to your elected officials to express your views on the matter: - **Senator Tammy Baldwin** - Email: tammy_baldwin@baldwin.senate.gov - Mailing Address: 30 W Mifflin St, Suite 700, Madison, WI 53703 - **Representative Mark Pocan** - Email: mark.pocan@mail.house.gov - Mailing Address: 10 E. Doty St., Suite 306, Madison, WI 53703
What to Say: - Express your concerns regarding the lack of a ceasefire and the need for diplomatic resolutions. You might say, "As a constituent deeply concerned about the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, I urge you to advocate for a ceasefire and support diplomatic efforts over military engagement. Peaceful negotiations are vital for the stability of the region."
3. **Engage on Social Media** - Use platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to promote peace initiatives and to share your stance on the necessity of a ceasefire. Tag relevant officials and organizations to amplify the message.
4. **Participate in Local Rallies and Events** - Join local peace initiatives or rallies advocating for peace in Ukraine. Check community boards or social media for upcoming events.
5. **Write Opinion Pieces or Letters to the Editor** - Contribute to local newspapers or online platforms discussing the importance of seeking peace in Ukraine and the potential consequences of an escalated conflict.
### Collaborate with Organizations
1. **Join Advocacy Groups** - Become active in organizations that focus on peace and conflict resolution, such as Amnesty International or Peace Action. They often have campaigns and initiatives you can support.
2. **Attend Educational Workshops** - Many organizations hold workshops or webinars on conflict resolution and humanitarian aid. Participating in these can enhance your understanding and equip you with more effective advocacy tools.
### Conclusion
The situation in Ukraine is a pressing humanitarian issue that requires our attention and action. By engaging in advocacy, educating ourselves and others, and supporting humanitarian efforts, we can contribute to the push for peace and a resolution to this devastating conflict. Each voice counts, and collective action can lead to significant change.