Putin did not have a place at the table of negotiations at the White House, but his voice was still heard. Through which
Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, at the Alaska summit. Photo: AA / Abaca / Abaca Press / Profimedia
Russian President Vladimir Putin was not present at the Monday's negotiations in the White House, between President Donald Trump, European leaders and Ukrainian president Volodimir Zelenski, but his point of view was not missing, CNN notes.
“I have known him for a long time, I have always had an excellent relationship with him,” Trump said about his Russian counterpart. “I think President Putin wants to find a solution. We will see,” added the white house.
Even though Trump seemed to speak on behalf of Putin, European leaders met at the White House generally avoided mentioning the Russian president. Although the Kremlin leader is in the center of attention and will largely determine the fate of Ukraine, it remains to be seen if Putin is as interested in concluding a peace agreement, as Trump has repeatedly suggested.
Trump has said that a trilateral meeting between Russia, Ukraine and the United States will soon take place.
“I think it is a matter since, not if,” Trump insisted.
But the moment could be a question that indicates much more than the mere moment. It will suggest Putin's seriousness in negotiating the war – or simply trying to earn time, as many critics suspect, notes the American television station.
Trump has adopted an optimistic tone, but left room for disappointment.
“It is possible that it cannot be realized (an agreement for the conclusion of the war, no). On the other hand, it is possible to realize,” said Trump, adding: “We have to give our best. It is all we can do.”
