Washington( The COW News Digital)In a firm statement that could reshape the trajectory of the Ukraine conflict, U.S. President Donald Trump declared that both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky are eager to meet with him — but he has made it clear that his meeting with Putin must come first.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Trump emphasized his readiness to play a direct role in halting the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, saying, “If my involvement can save lives, I consider it my responsibility to act.” He added that his priority is to first sit down with Putin privately before any trilateral or bilateral talks between Moscow and Kyiv take place.
Trump revealed that the deadline for key decisions regarding the Ukraine war is set to expire tomorrow, placing the next move firmly in Putin’s hands. “The ball is in President Putin’s court,” Trump noted. “He can choose to announce a ceasefire or continue the fight — but I’m prepared to do everything I can to stop the bloodshed.”
The U.S. president’s approach signals a departure from conventional diplomatic protocols, where mediators often encourage warring parties to meet face-to-face early in negotiations. Instead, Trump insists that his personal engagement with Putin could pave the way for more productive discussions between Russia and Ukraine afterward.
“I don’t see any reason for Putin and Zelensky to meet before I speak with Putin,” Trump asserted. “This is not about ego — it’s about establishing the right conditions for real progress.”
The announcement comes at a tense moment in global politics, with both NATO and European leaders closely monitoring any signs of a breakthrough in the conflict. While some analysts view Trump’s intervention as a potential opportunity for a diplomatic reset, others caution that it could risk alienating Ukraine if perceived as tilting toward Russia’s terms.
Moscow has yet to issue an official response to Trump’s remarks, while Kyiv has maintained its position that any talks must prioritize Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
If successful, Trump’s planned mediation could mark one of the most high-profile U.S.-led peace efforts in recent history — but the path forward remains uncertain, hinging on Putin’s decision in the next 24 hours.
