Former U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated his willingness to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping in China next month, with a focus on nuclear disarmament and potentially addressing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. However, Trump has expressed skepticism regarding Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s approach to negotiations, suggesting that another representative might be more suitable for talks.
Trump’s comments, made on October 19, came amid heightened tensions following a Russian drone strike in Ukraine’s Kharkiv region that resulted in the deaths of six civilians, including two children. The attack, which injured 15 others, prompted Zelensky to demand stronger Western air defenses and the continuation of sanctions against Russia.
Trump’s stance has drawn criticism from Kyiv, particularly regarding his decision to ease restrictions on Russian diesel exports and to waive new sanctions on Moscow, which some fear could benefit Russia financially as the war persists. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha warned that a meeting between Trump, Putin, and Xi without Ukraine’s participation might embolden Moscow to prolong the conflict. He emphasized that Ukraine should be directly involved in any diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the situation.
The proposed summit coincides with reports that Putin is seeking discussions with Trump and Xi at the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Shenzhen, China, scheduled for November. Moscow is reportedly eager to engage in talks that could influence a resolution to the conflict.
While the Kremlin acknowledged discussions about a potential three-way meeting, it clarified that no formal proposals or agendas have been established. Similarly, China has stated that it has no information regarding such a summit.
The diplomatic developments occur amidst increasing disagreements between Washington and Kyiv over issues such as sanctions, military assistance, and the conditions for ending the war. Ukraine maintains that any decisions about its future must involve its direct participation in negotiations.