The United States reportedly wants Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Hungary, with U.S. officials and possibly Donald Trump involved in arranging the talks.
USA push for Zelensky‑Putin meeting in Hungary
Media reports that the United States wants Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Hungary.
Politico reports White House favours Budapest as neutral venue
Politico has said the White House seeks Budapest for a peace dialogue involving Zelensky and Putin, with Donald Trump potentially attending. White House spokesperson Caroline Leavitt indicated that various potential locations were still under consideration, with details to be disclosed when possible.
Hungary seen as an uncomfortable choice for Ukraine – the Budapest Memorandum
Politico has noted that Hungary would be an uncomfortable choice for Ukraine, recalling the 1994 Budapest Memorandum, which guaranteed Ukraine’s independence and sovereignty in return for relinquishing its territory abroad. The memorandum failed to prevent the subsequent Russian aggression.
Zelensky criticises 1994 guarantees for lacking effectiveness
Before his meeting with Donald Trump on August 18, President Zelensky posted on X that the 1994 guarantees failed to protect Ukraine, leading to the loss of Crimea and parts of Donbas and fueling additional Russian offensives. He stressed that Ukraine continues to fight for its land and independence.
White House confirms Putin agreed to meet Zelensky
Caroline Leavitt confirmed that Putin agreed to a meeting with Zelensky and that U.S. officials – including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Vice President J.D. Vance, and President’s special envoy Steve Witkoff – will coordinate with Ukraine and Russia to arrange a timely meeting.
Putin had suggested a Moscow meeting
Media reports indicate that Putin proposed Moscow for the meeting, but Zelensky rejected the idea during a White House visit. French President Emmanuel Macron suggested Geneva as a venue for Zelensky to meet Trump.
Sources:
Politico; United States White House spokesperson Caroline Leavitt; Volodymyr Zelensky’s X post; media reports on U.S. proposals.
Source: Gazeta,
