Trump and Zelenskyy Meet at Mar-a-Lago, Opening Door to First Putin-Zelenskyy Call in Five Years
PALM BEACH, Fla. — In a development that could mark a turning point in the protracted conflict between Russia and Ukraine, President Donald Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Sunday at Mar-a-Lago to discuss a comprehensive, U.S.-backed 20-point peace plan aimed at ending the war. The meeting, described by sources familiar with the talks as a critical step forward, may soon lead to the first direct phone call between Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin in over five years, a diplomatic breakthrough that has eluded negotiators since 2020.
Trump, who has taken on the role of mediator, confirmed he had spoken with Putin ahead of the meeting, calling the conversation “good and very productive” in a post on Truth Social. Standing alongside Zelenskyy after the Florida meeting, Trump expressed optimism about the prospects for peace, stating, “I do believe that we have the makings of a deal” and that the process could “move very rapidly.” He warned, however, that failure to reach an agreement would prolong the conflict and result in “millions of additional people” being killed.
According to a source who spoke on condition of anonymity, securing a direct call between Putin and Zelenskyy would represent a major diplomatic victory for Trump and a significant milestone in the peace process. “If Putin had joined in a call Sunday, this would have been the greatest achievement in the preparation of the peace talks and the first real step in the peace process,” the source said.
The last known direct communication between the two leaders occurred in 2020, when Zelenskyy reportedly adopted a more conciliatory tone toward Putin. Since then, no direct dialogue has taken place amid escalating hostilities. The renewed possibility of a phone call signals a thaw in relations and a potential opening for substantive negotiations.
Sunday’s meeting also included U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law, both of whom have been involved in diplomatic efforts surrounding the conflict. Zelenskyy reportedly described his recent conversations with Witkoff as “good,” underscoring a collaborative approach to the negotiations.
As Zelenskyy approached the meeting, sources noted he was likely feeling anxious, a reaction consistent with his demeanor before high-stakes discussions with Trump. The Ukrainian president reportedly devoted significant time to reviewing notes prepared by his International Policy Department and Foreign Ministry, underscoring the gravity of the talks.
Trump’s mediation efforts have drawn attention internationally, with some observers noting his unique ability to navigate the emotional and political complexities between Putin and Zelenskyy. Finnish President Sauli Niinistö recently remarked that a Russia-Ukraine peace deal is closer than at any previous point during the war, a sentiment that echoes growing hopes for resolution.
The ongoing conflict has drawn extensive U.S. involvement, with significant military and humanitarian aid provided to Ukraine. The U.S. Department of State continues to monitor developments closely, emphasizing diplomatic solutions alongside support efforts. Meanwhile, the Department of Defense maintains readiness amid fluctuating tensions.
Trump’s role as a mediator has sparked debate domestically and abroad, with critics questioning the timing and motivations behind his involvement. Nonetheless, the potential for a direct dialogue between Putin and Zelenskyy represents a rare opportunity to break the deadlock that has defined the conflict for half a decade.
As the world watches, the next steps in the peace process remain uncertain but hopeful. The United Nations continues to advocate for peaceful resolution, while international leaders prepare to respond to any breakthroughs that may arise from these talks.
With the meeting at Mar-a-Lago marking the third in-person encounter between Trump and Zelenskyy this year, the momentum toward peace appears to be building. Whether this momentum will culminate in a historic phone call between the two adversaries remains to be seen, but the possibility alone signals a shift in the diplomatic landscape that has long been frozen by conflict.
Leave a Reply