Former U.S. President Donald Trump has shown interest in meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping in China next month, a move that could exclude Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky from the discussions. Trump stated that the primary focus of the meeting would be on nuclear disarmament, but discussions could also touch upon Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine.
Trump, speaking to reporters on October 19, expressed his willingness to facilitate an end to the conflict in Ukraine. However, he criticized Zelensky’s strategy in negotiations and suggested that someone else should represent Ukraine in such talks. This stance has drawn criticism, particularly from Ukrainian officials who believe that any diplomatic resolution requires Kyiv’s direct involvement.
Trump’s comments come in the wake of a devastating Russian drone strike in Ukraine’s Kharkiv region, which resulted in the deaths of six civilians, including two children, and injuries to 15 others. Zelensky condemned the attack and urged for stronger Western defenses and continued sanctions against Russia.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha warned against a potential meeting between Trump, Putin, and Xi without Ukraine’s participation, arguing that it could embolden Moscow to prolong the war. He emphasized that a meaningful diplomatic effort should directly involve Ukraine and called on Russia to show a genuine commitment to peace.
The potential summit is reportedly being considered during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit set to take place in Shenzhen, China, in November. The Kremlin has confirmed discussions about a possible three-way meeting but clarified that no formal proposal or agenda has been established. China has indicated it has no information about such a summit.
Tensions have been rising between Washington and Kyiv over issues related to sanctions, military assistance, and the conditions necessary to end the conflict. Ukraine insists that its future and security cannot be decided without its active participation in negotiations.