Zelensky and Trump Agree March Talks with Russia Should Lead to Leaders’ Meeting

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he held a detailed phone conversation with US President Donald Trump, during which both leaders agreed that the next round of trilateral peace talks with Russia in March should pave the way for a high-level meeting between national leaders.

According to Zelenskyy, the upcoming talks involving Ukraine, the United States, and Russia are expected to take place in early March. He emphasised that progress at the negotiating table should ultimately elevate discussions to a direct meeting between heads of state.

Zelenskyy described this step as essential to resolving complex political and territorial disputes that continue to prolong the war. He stated that moving negotiations to the leaders’ level could provide the momentum needed to end Europe’s largest conflict since World War II.

The phone call reportedly included senior US negotiators, including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. The conversation took place ahead of a separate bilateral meeting between Ukrainian and US officials focused on post-war reconstruction and economic cooperation.

Speaking at a press conference in Kyiv alongside Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, Zelenskyy said the upcoming discussions would include a “prosperity package” aimed at rebuilding Ukraine’s economy. He thanked the United States for its continued involvement in peace efforts and for supplying air defence systems that have helped Ukraine withstand winter attacks.

Meanwhile, Russia has yet to formally confirm its participation at the leadership level. However, reports suggest that Russian President Vladimir Putin may send representatives to Geneva for discussions with US negotiators. Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev is expected to be present at the diplomatic engagements, though official confirmation remains limited.

The reconstruction of Ukraine has become a major topic within broader peace negotiations. Kyiv estimates that rebuilding the country could require approximately $800 billion over the next decade. A recent World Bank assessment placed reconstruction costs at around $588 billion, based on data from February 2022 through the end of 2025.

Zelenskyy reiterated that Ukraine does not possess nuclear weapons, dismissing recent Russian allegations as political pressure tactics during negotiations. He called for a strong response from international partners to what he described as dangerous rhetoric.

Despite ongoing dialogue, key differences remain unresolved. Russia continues to demand territorial concessions in eastern Ukraine, particularly in the Donetsk region, while Kyiv has firmly rejected surrendering land defended at heavy human cost.

As diplomatic efforts intensify, the proposed leaders’ meeting could mark a significant turning point in the conflict. However, success will depend on bridging deep political divides and securing credible commitments from all parties involved.