The two leaders agreed to meet in Hungary, with preparations beginning immediately., BBC reported. Trump described the call as “very productive” and indicated that high-level advisors from both countries would convene next week, though he did not specify a date for his Budapest meeting.
The call took place just before Ukrainian President Zelensky’s visit to the White House, where discussions about arming Ukraine with Tomahawk missiles were anticipated. Zelensky noted that Russia seemed eager to engage in dialogue following news of potential missile support from the US.
In his post-call remarks, Trump focused on future trade relations between the US and Russia, contingent on the resolution of the Ukraine conflict. He expressed intentions to brief Zelensky on the discussions. When asked about supplying missiles to Ukraine, Trump cautioned against depleting US stockpiles, stating, “we need them too.”
Ukrainian Ambassador to the US, Olga Stefanishyna, criticized Russia’s recent strikes on Ukraine, asserting they reveal Moscow’s true intentions regarding peace. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban welcomed the planned meeting, calling for patience and dialogue to achieve peace in Europe.
Trump’s stance on Putin has shifted to a tougher approach since the earlier summit in Alaska, where no significant breakthroughs were made. Despite prior claims of quickly resolving the Ukraine war, Trump acknowledged the complexity of the situation. Relations with Zelensky have improved, especially as Trump now expresses support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity.
Zelensky’s upcoming visit is expected to heavily focus on the issue of Tomahawk missiles, which can strike targets deep within Russia.
