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In a major development, U.S. President Donald Trump has confirmed that he will soon meet Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss a ceasefire in Ukraine — and possibly a broader settlement to the war. While the exact location of the talks remains undisclosed, Trump hinted it would be held in what he called a “very popular location,” with speculation ranging from European capitals like Rome, Switzerland, or Hungary, to Gulf states.
Speaking on the potential outcome of the negotiations, President Trump suggested that the peace plan could involve more than just ending military hostilities. He openly mentioned the possibility of a “swapping of territory” between Ukraine and Russia, a remark that is likely to spark alarm in Kyiv.
“Well, you’re looking at territory that’s been fought over for three and a half years with, you know, a lot of Russians have died, a lot of Ukrainians have died,” Trump said. “We’re looking to get some back and some swapping. It’s complicated. It’s actually nothing easy. But we’re going to get some back, we’re going to get some switched. There’ll be some swapping of territories to the betterment of both.”
Such a proposal touches on one of the most sensitive issues of the conflict — the status of territories Russia has claimed beyond Crimea, including two regions in southern Ukraine and two others in the east. The idea that a peace agreement could involve Ukraine ceding parts of its sovereign land is certain to trigger political and public backlash in Kyiv, where leaders have repeatedly stated that no territorial concessions are acceptable.
With no clear details yet on the final terms, Trump’s comments signal that any peace deal he brokers would likely push beyond a mere ceasefire, aiming instead for what he describes as a “permanent settlement.” Whether such an arrangement would be accepted by Ukraine — or even possible — remains to be seen.