Anna Hartz
Speculation and Skepticism Surround Possible Putin–Trump Talks
Politics often brings together leaders with long histories and even longer differences. When two powerful figures agree to meet, the world tends to watch closely.
This is especially true when those leaders are Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump. News of their possible face-to-face meeting has quickly spread across Russia and beyond.
On August 7, Kremlin adviser Yuri Ushakov said preparations are underway for the meeting, writes Digi24. He claimed the idea came from the United States.
“A Real Lesson in Diplomacy”
The White House, however, said it was Putin who made the proposal. The meeting is expected “in the coming days.”
In Russia, pro-war bloggers on Telegram reacted immediately. Some praised the move. Others doubted it would change anything in the war in Ukraine. Well-known blogger Yuri Podolyaka called Putin’s approach “a real lesson in diplomacy.”
He said few leaders know how to handle a tough situation like this.
Still, many writers on pro-war channels kept their expectations low. The Military Informant channel described the meeting as “probably the last attempt to buy time.”
It predicted the event might feel historic but warned against expecting major progress in the war.
The channel said Ukraine has benefited from President Volodymyr Zelensky’s close alignment with U.S. policies. It suggested this meeting could be the final chance to shift the situation in Russia’s favor.
“Nothing to Offer”
Military blogger Alexander Kots also voiced doubt. He said there would likely be no “decisive decisions” on Ukraine right now.
He argued that Trump needs to hear directly about the war and Russia’s goals. According to him, Russia’s request is simple: stop interfering.
Some bloggers reacted to comments from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who said Trump might still impose more sanctions on Russia.
The Two Majors channel dismissed the threat. It said Moscow is not afraid and that Trump has nothing new to offer. They wrote; “Donald has nothing to scare Moscow with at this point – and he has nothing to offer.”
As for where the meeting should happen, ideas varied. One suggestion came from the Starshe Eddy channel, which proposed hosting it during the Zapad military exercises in Belarus. Ushakov said the location is already chosen but will be announced later.
For now, supporters and skeptics alike are waiting to see if this high-profile meeting will happen — and what, if anything, it will change.
