Trump and Putin to Meet in Budapest for Ukraine Peace Talks

In a significant diplomatic development, U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin have agreed to meet in Budapest, Hungary, within the next two weeks to negotiate an end to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This decision follows a two-and-a-half-hour phone conversation between the two leaders on October 16, 2025.

The call, initiated by Moscow, was described by Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov as "meaningful, frank, and very useful." Peskov noted that President Putin's primary intention was to congratulate President Trump on his recent Middle East visit. During the conversation, both leaders agreed to convene a summit in Budapest to discuss potential resolutions to the Russo-Ukrainian war.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has expressed readiness to host the summit, emphasizing Hungary's "pro-peace" stance. Orbán stated, "We are here, and we will provide fair and safe conditions at any time. We would be happy to host such peace talks if we can help ensure the success of peace efforts." The choice of Budapest is notable, given Hungary's position as a NATO and EU member state, and its unique diplomatic relations with both the U.S. and Russia.

Preparatory meetings between high-level advisors are scheduled for the following week to lay the groundwork for the leaders' discussions. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to lead the U.S. delegation, while Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will represent Russia.

The conflict between Russia and Ukraine began in 2014, following Russia's annexation of Crimea and subsequent support for separatist movements in Eastern Ukraine. Despite multiple ceasefires and peace agreements, including the Minsk agreements, the conflict has persisted, resulting in significant casualties and displacement.

The upcoming Budapest summit follows a previous meeting held in Alaska on August 15, 2025, which concluded without a formal agreement. The decision to hold another summit underscores the ongoing efforts to find a diplomatic resolution to the conflict.

Hungary's role as the host nation aligns with its "pro-peace" stance and its diplomatic relations with both the U.S. and Russia. Prime Minister Orbán has maintained a unique position within NATO and the EU, often advocating for dialogue with Russia. Hosting the upcoming summit reflects Hungary's commitment to facilitating peace talks.

The agreement to hold a summit in Budapest signifies a renewed diplomatic effort to resolve the Russo-Ukrainian conflict. A successful negotiation could lead to a cessation of hostilities, reducing human suffering and fostering regional stability. However, the involvement of Hungary, a NATO and EU member with close ties to Russia, may raise questions about the impartiality and effectiveness of the mediation.

As the international community watches closely, the upcoming summit in Budapest represents a critical opportunity for diplomatic engagement aimed at ending the protracted conflict in Ukraine.