President Donald Trump expressed his intention to initiate direct talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin following Putin’s absence from peace talks between Russia and Ukraine in Turkey. Trump, during his visit to the Middle East, emphasized the need for dialogue, stating, “I think it’s time for us to just do it.” He indicated a potential upcoming meeting with Putin, acknowledging the uncertain outcome but stressing the importance of engagement.

Despite Putin’s decision to skip the scheduled talks, Trump remained determined to arrange a meeting promptly. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy participated in the discussions as Trump urged both sides to reach a resolution to the conflict that began with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

While Russia and Ukraine engaged in their first direct peace talks in three years in Istanbul, prospects for immediate progress appeared limited. Trump underscored the urgency of resolving the conflict, citing the alarming rate of casualties. He emphasized the necessity of a meeting with Putin to facilitate a breakthrough, recognizing the high stakes involved.

Trump’s proactive approach to diplomacy underscores his commitment to addressing the ongoing crisis and his belief in the significance of direct engagement between key stakeholders. The article highlights the complex dynamics surrounding the conflict and the pivotal role of diplomatic efforts in achieving a lasting resolution.