Trump sees possibility of 'doing something' on Russia-Ukraine war; Putin and Zelensky 'open to dialogue'

U.S. President Donald Trump expressed optimism about potentially mediating an end to the war in Ukraine, stating that both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky are receptive to dialogue.

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We had a very good conversation yesterday with President Zelensky and President Putin, and I think maybe we can do something. I really believe that. Both are open to it.

Speaking to reporters before a G7 summit in Évian, France, Trump revealed he had conversations with both leaders on Sunday. "We had a very good conversation yesterday with President Zelensky and President Putin, and I think maybe we can do something. I really believe that. Both are open to it," Trump said.

The G7 summit agenda includes discussions on peace and security in Ukraine. French President Emmanuel Macron conveyed his hope that Trump could be persuaded to intensify pressure on Russia to cease its military actions. Macron emphasized the need for a negotiated settlement, stating, "Good negotiation is that Ukraine and Russia sit at the same table, with the Europeans and the Americans there."

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Good negotiation is that Ukraine and Russia sit at the same table, with the Europeans and the Americans there.

Macron stressed that increasing pressure on Russia is a key objective, advocating for strengthened diplomatic efforts. The conflict has had a severe impact on civilians, with recent Russian airstrikes reportedly killing at least 11 people on Monday. One bombing damaged the roof of the Dormition Cathedral in Kyiv, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

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We have to increase the pressure on Russia.