Moscow has urged for an immediate resumption of discussions with Washington regarding strategic nuclear stability. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov highlighted that the world is currently lacking a legal framework to regulate nuclear matters, a situation unprecedented in history.

His remarks came in response to questions about a potential trilateral meeting involving Russian President Vladimir Putin, US President Donald Trump, and Chinese President Xi Jinping, which may take place in China next month. Peskov emphasised the complexity of the issues at hand, suggesting that negotiations should commence as soon as possible, given that such discussions are likely to be lengthy.

The Kremlin had previously indicated that the three leaders might meet on the sidelines of an Asia-Pacific summit scheduled in Shenzhen next month. This announcement followed a report by the Wall Street Journal, which claimed that Putin was advocating for a trilateral format to advance a peace settlement that would be favourable to Russia.

Trump’s Willingness to Meet

On Monday, Donald Trump expressed his openness to travelling to China for discussions with Putin and Xi. He stated that the primary focus of the agenda would be denuclearisation, although the ongoing conflict in Ukraine could also be addressed. When questioned by reporters about participating in a meeting with the two leaders to discuss Ukraine, Trump remarked, “I would do it, not so much for Ukraine, because Russia, frankly, has been fine on Ukraine. They haven’t been doing much.”

He further added that the meeting would primarily revolve around nuclear weapons and denuclearisation, according to reports from AFP. However, the Chinese government has not confirmed the proposed meeting. Mao Ning, a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, stated that she had no information regarding such discussions, as reported by AFP.

This uncertainty raises questions about the feasibility and potential outcomes of the anticipated summit. Ukraine has expressed significant concerns regarding a potential meeting that excludes its participation, arguing that it would undermine efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha stated that a gathering without Ukraine’s involvement would only serve to embolden Putin in his military actions.

He asserted, “A trilateral meeting between the leaders of Ukraine, the US, and Russia could help end the war sooner. A trilateral meeting between the leaders of Russia, China, and the US would do only the opposite: encourage Putin to continue this war,” in a post on X.

Implications for Peace Negotiations

The Kremlin has acknowledged that a conclusive peace agreement cannot be achieved without the participation of Ukraine. When asked whether Putin believed a deal could be reached without Kyiv’s involvement, Peskov stated that it is evident Ukraine must be part of any final settlement.

He remarked, “Of course, a final settlement is impossible without the participation of someone in Kyiv who is prepared to take responsibility,” as cited by Reuters. This statement underscores the necessity of including Ukraine in any discussions aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict. The situation remains fluid, with various stakeholders closely monitoring developments as the potential summit approaches.

The international community awaits further clarity on the proposed meeting and its implications for regional stability. As discussions continue, the focus remains on achieving a diplomatic resolution that addresses the concerns of all parties involved, particularly in light of the significant geopolitical ramifications of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

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