Talks in Moscow are progressing, and a Russia-Azerbaijan-Armenia trilateral is being contemplated. It would have U.S. President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy all on it. The potential of this historic meeting arrives in the context of escalating conflict in Ukraine and a mounting international demand to return to diplomacy and negotiate peace.
In closed-door meetings with Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, that idea of a trilateral summit was floated. This would be the fifth time Witkoff has personally met with Putin since August, indicating an increasing establishment of a dialogue between the two parties. According to Yuri Ushakov, a senior aide to Putin, “At the request of the American side, both parties have effectively agreed to hold a high-level bilateral meeting in the coming days.”
Zelenskyy has expressed support for the proposed summit, asserting that Ukraine is “not afraid of meetings and expects the same brave approach from the Russian side.” His comments emphasize Ukraine’s push for a continued diplomatic dialogue, although tensions are still high.
Speculation around the meeting has factored in plans for two bilateral formats to accompany the trilateral setup. Zelenskyy has constantly reminded us that Europe needs to play a pivotal role in any attempt to stop the war that is still going on today. This regional engagement is a testament to the complicated geopolitical landscape that is influencing negotiations.
Trump has reiterated his concerns regarding Russia, warning that if a ceasefire is not achieved, Moscow could face broader sanctions. Buhari is optimistic about the trilateral meeting, insisting that he plans to “convene” with both leaders “very soon.” Hopes for a peace deal before Trump’s deadline are already very dim, underscoring how much work is still needed.
Putin’s demands complicate the situation further. He conditions Ukraine’s support on the country’s withdrawal from all the territory that Russia occupies. He similarly demands acceptance of Crimea as Russian territory and elimination of all international sanctions against Russia. Under these circumstances, the negotiators face a seemingly insurmountable challenge to reach accord among the three principals.
Zelenskyy assured Americans that he had discussed the meeting with Trump and sought advice from European leaders. Russia has not officially responded positively to suggestions of a possible trilateral summit.
