In a dramatic development that could have far-reaching implications for global diplomacy, former U.S. President Donald Trump is reportedly planning to meet with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as soon as next week, according to a New York Times (NYT) report published earlier today.

The planned meetings were allegedly revealed during a private call between Trump and several European leaders, during which the former president hinted at taking a direct role in efforts to mediate the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. The move, if it materializes, would mark Trump’s return to the global diplomatic stage, potentially reshaping the approach toward the conflict that has gripped Europe and the world for more than three years.

Trump’s Diplomatic Playbook

According to the NYT sources, Trump expressed his intention to meet both leaders separately, starting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, followed by a sit-down with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy. The meetings are reportedly being considered for a neutral location, possibly in Europe or the Middle East, to facilitate backchannel discussions on ending the war or at least reducing current hostilities.

During his presidency, Trump was known for his unconventional approach to diplomacy, including historic summits with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and direct talks with adversarial nations. This latest plan appears to echo a similar strategy, with Trump aiming to position himself as a global peace broker ahead of the upcoming U.S. presidential election cycle.

European Leaders Caught Off-Guard

The disclosure reportedly surprised several European heads of state, who had joined the private call expecting a routine discussion on regional politics. Instead, Trump reportedly emphasized the urgency of ending the war, suggesting that NATO’s current strategy was insufficient, and that only a strong individual diplomatic push—such as his—could bring both sides to the table.

Officials familiar with the matter said the leaders on the call did not immediately object but expressed caution, given Trump’s historically controversial stance on Russia and his strained relations with the European Union during his presidency.

A Volatile Global Context

The potential meetings come at a time when the Russia-Ukraine conflict has entered a bloody stalemate, with no clear breakthrough in sight despite repeated efforts by the United Nations, NATO, and the European Union. Zelenskyy has continued to seek military aid and financial support from Western nations, while Russia has been tightening control in occupied territories.

In this context, Trump’s intervention may either accelerate a diplomatic process or risk derailing ongoing multilateral negotiations, depending on how the talks are structured and received by international stakeholders.

What Might Trump Achieve?

Analysts are divided on what Trump can realistically achieve from these talks. Some believe he may offer a framework for a temporary ceasefire, or at least encourage the opening of direct negotiation channels. Others argue that Trump's presence could politicize the peace process, especially with the U.S. election campaigns underway and foreign policy being a key issue.

It’s also unclear how current Biden administration officials will respond, since Trump holds no formal diplomatic position and may not have access to updated intelligence or strategic insights that are usually required for such high-stakes diplomacy.

Nonetheless, the former president has a large base of support, both in the U.S. and among certain international circles, and his involvement could change the tone and urgency of talks in unpredictable ways.

Signals from Moscow and Kyiv

As of now, official statements from the Kremlin or the Ukrainian Presidential Office have not confirmed any upcoming meetings with Trump. However, both nations are reportedly aware of the development and are conducting internal assessments on how to engage, should an invitation or proposal be formally extended.

Russia may view the Trump meeting as an opportunity to reduce international pressure, especially sanctions, while Ukraine might be more cautious, considering Trump’s past ambiguity on U.S. commitments to NATO and Ukraine.

Impact on U.S. Politics

Domestically, this surprise development has already begun to stir the pot. Several Democratic lawmakers have criticized the move, calling it "unauthorized shadow diplomacy." Meanwhile, Trump’s allies have praised the effort, portraying him as a strong leader taking initiative where others have failed.

Given that Trump is expected to run for president again in 2026, this international outreach may help bolster his image as a dealmaker and negotiator, potentially winning over voters concerned with foreign affairs.

Conclusion

The prospect of Donald Trump engaging directly with both Putin and Zelenskyy introduces a new and highly unpredictable dimension to global efforts in resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict. While many questions remain—about legitimacy, outcomes, and global response—this development undeniably places Trump back into the center of international diplomacy.

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