President Donald Trump of the United States engaged in discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, according to a report by Axios correspondent Barak Ravid. The talks, which lasted approximately 30 minutes, concluded around 8:40 PM local time.
Earlier in the day, Zelensky indicated that the next round of trilateral negotiations involving Ukraine, the US, and Russia regarding the cessation of hostilities could take place in early March. He noted that this would be preceded by a meeting between Rustem Umerov, the head of the Ukrainian delegation and Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council, and American negotiators scheduled for February 26.
Several rounds of trilateral meetings have occurred throughout January and February, aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict. Specific outcomes from these discussions have not been publicly disclosed. However, a notable agreement was reached on February 5, allowing for a prisoner exchange—the first in five months.
Stephen Witkoff, a special envoy for President Trump, recently expressed optimism in an interview with Fox News, anticipating “good news” in the coming weeks and suggesting a potential meeting between Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Prior to the Geneva negotiations on February 17-18, Trump remarked that Ukraine should “quickly come to the negotiating table.” He has previously stated his belief that Russia is inclined to reach an agreement amid the ongoing conflict.
Despite US efforts to mediate a resolution, Russia has shown little willingness to soften its demands, which include Ukraine’s relinquishment of territories in Donbas. Analysts from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) have noted that the Kremlin continues to reject Western security guarantees for Ukraine, signaling a commitment to its maximalist objectives in the conflict.
In contrast, Ukraine insists on robust security assurances from the US and European allies to safeguard against future aggression from Russia.
Recent talks between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky focused on the ongoing conflict with Russia. With further negotiations planned, both sides express differing expectations regarding security guarantees and territorial issues.
Source: Axios