The meeting between Trump and Putin is on the horizon, although the date is still pending. Speculation suggests the meeting will occur next week. Putin’s agreement to meet, influenced by Trump’s ultimatum, has gained attention. The decision wasn’t made lightly; Trump has put forward a series of proposals that would significantly benefit Russia, setting the stage for potentially fruitful discussions.
Amidst the ongoing issues surrounding Ukraine, Trump had previously given Putin a 50-day deadline, subsequently reduced to ten days. As this deadline passed, Trump sent his special envoy, Witkoff, to relay specific offers aimed at benefiting Russia. Trump’s disappointment with Putin’s actions is apparent, but he is willing to offer concessions that could provide substantial relief to Putin.
Witkoff’s Role in Moscow
The visit of Trump’s special envoy, Witkoff, to Russia seems to have decreased the tensions between the leaders. Witkoff presented Putin with a range of offers, including potential agreements about Ukraine and Russia, such as preventing the expansion of NATO. This explains Putin’s enthusiasm for the meeting, even suggesting the UAE as the potential site.
The Concessions Offered by Trump:
* Trump promised Putin that a ceasefire, not a peace treaty, will be pursued in Ukraine.
* The current Russian territorial control will be acknowledged without formal legal validation.
* This status will be prolonged for a period of 49 to 99 years.
* Approval will be given for the import of Russian gas and oil for the long term.
* A guarantee that NATO won’t expand, ensured by the US.
Putin’s Perspective on the Meeting
Putin is looking forward to the meeting, seeing it as a positive development. He conveyed positive messages to Trump’s special envoy. Putin has also confirmed his readiness to meet Trump and hinted at a possible end to hostilities in Ukraine. Yuri Ushakov, one of Putin’s associates, said the conversation between President Putin and Steve Witkoff was positive. The potential meeting location is the UAE, according to Putin.