U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a pointed warning to Russian leader Vladimir Putin, suggesting Moscow could face consequences if its next moves in Ukraine clash with Washington’s stance.
Speaking to reporters at the White House on Wednesday, Trump said he expects to talk with Putin soon but stressed that the Kremlin “already knows where I stand.”
“Whatever his decision is, we’ll either be happy about it or unhappy. And if we’re unhappy, you’ll see things happen,” Trump said.
Putin open to talks, but on Moscow’s turf
Putin repeated that he is willing to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy but insisted such talks would only take place in Moscow. He warned that Russia was ready to press forward militarily if negotiations fail.
Kyiv quickly dismissed the offer. Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha accused Putin of “stalling tactics,” saying only stronger international pressure would push Moscow toward genuine peace talks. Ukraine continues to reject any deal that involves giving up land occupied by Russia since 2022.
Allies step in with security pledges
Zelenskyy said he would hold a call with Trump on Thursday to discuss tighter sanctions against Russia. He also welcomed signs of long-term security guarantees from the United States and Europe. French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed that several European countries are prepared to offer such assurances once a peace agreement is in place.
Diplomacy remains uncertain
Trump has suggested he could mediate between Putin and Zelenskyy, but deep divisions remain. With Moscow insisting on recognition of annexed territories and Kyiv standing firm on sovereignty, the chances of a breakthrough remain slim.
Attention now turns to Trump’s upcoming call with Putin and Ukraine’s talks with European partners — discussions that could shape the next phase of diplomacy in the conflict.
