Trump Suggests Meeting Putin in Saudi Arabia for Ukraine Peace Talks

Former U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Wednesday that he will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Saudi Arabia to discuss peace talks regarding Ukraine. This marks the first known contact between Trump and Putin since Trump left the White House. Trump indicated he is working to exert pressure to end the conflict in Ukraine, which has been ongoing for nearly three years. He also expressed concern about Ukraine "being chopped up" due to ongoing circumstances. Trump criticized Ukraine's desire to join NATO, deeming it "inappropriate," echoing similar sentiments held by Russia. Trump told reporters at his Oval Office about his plan to meet with Putin, stating, "I expect he'll be there, and I'll be there, and we'll probably meet for the first time, potentially, in Saudi Arabia." He anticipates this meeting "will not be in the too distant future." Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is also expected to be involved. The Kremlin stated that the talks between the two leaders lasted nearly an hour. Putin invited Trump to Moscow. Meanwhile, Ukrainian leader Andriy Yermak mentioned on television that Zelenskyy and Trump have agreed to work on creating a "very powerful team" from both sides to work towards solutions. Yermak also stated that Zelenskyy and U.S. officials will have discussions at the Munich Security Conference, scheduled for February 14-16, with Vice President Kamala Harris and Secretary of State Antony Blinken also participating. Zelenskyy is also scheduled to meet with both leaders. Trump's discussions with Putin have sparked concerns about potential alignment with Russian interests, especially regarding Ukraine. Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth told European allies that Ukraine's dream of regaining territories up to its 2014 borders is a "fantasy goal," and its NATO membership is "unrealistic." These sentiments mirror Russia's demands. Trump dismissed the idea that Zelenskyy was separated from him, despite Hegseth's statements indicating U.S. alignment with Russian interests. Yermak reiterated that Ukraine will not compromise on its "independence, territorial integrity, and sovereignty." Ukrainian leaders are seeking security guarantees in negotiations with Russia. Trump has also proposed leveraging rare minerals in exchange for military aid to Ukraine. Concerns remain regarding potential compromises in negotiations involving Ukraine and European capitals. Foreign ministers from France, Germany, and Spain emphasized the need for "urgent and long-lasting peace" for Ukraine and its European allies.