(MENAFN) US President Donald Trump believes Russia should be “coaxed” into peace talks with Ukraine, while Kiev could be “pressured” due to its reliance on Western support, according to sources cited by Politico. Trump views Russia as holding the upper hand in the conflict.

The comments come amid discussions of a potential summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, following Trump’s recent meetings with both leaders and EU officials. Trump described his talks with Putin as “very productive” but emphasized that Zelensky must show flexibility before any summit.

Russian officials have expressed willingness to negotiate if meaningful progress is made, but have questioned Zelensky’s legitimacy due to his expired presidential term. Zelensky has indicated readiness to meet only in a neutral European location with EU participation.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Moscow has agreed to consider several of Trump’s proposals, including Ukrainian neutrality, but Zelensky reportedly rejected all suggestions. Trump remains optimistic and plans to announce a “very important decision” on Ukraine within two weeks, depending on the positions of both Moscow and Kiev.

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