White House Readies for Zelenskyy Visit Amid Trump-Putin Talks

US President Donald Trump conducted a “very productive” phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday, a day before welcoming Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to the White House. Trump communicated the positive outcome of his discussion with Putin via Truth Social, stating that they shared perspectives on the Ukraine war. Key to this engagement, Trump announced that Secretary of State Marco Rubio will meet with Russian advisers in the coming week. Additionally, the President outlined his intention to meet Putin in person in Budapest, Hungary, to “see if we can bring this inglorious war between Russia and Ukraine to an end.” This diplomatic initiative emphasizes the administration’s commitment to exploring all avenues for peace. The meeting with President Zelenskyy on Friday is anticipated to cover crucial topics including ongoing US support and potential pathways to peace. Zelenskyy has expressed his intent to discuss air defense and long-range military capabilities, while Russia has previously signaled extreme concern over the potential delivery of long-range missiles to Ukraine.