Trump open to joining Russia-Ukraine peace talks in Istanbul if Putin attends

US President Donald Trump is willing to attend the upcoming Russia–Ukraine peace negotiations in Istanbul, but only if Russian President Vladimir Putin confirms his participation, Trump’s special envoy to Ukraine said.

US President Donald Trump will attend the peace talks between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul, but only if Russian President Vladimir Putin confirms his participation, said Trump's special envoy to Ukraine, Keith Kellogg.

“We’re hoping President Putin shows up as well, and then President Trump will be there,” Kellogg told Fox Business. “This could be an absolute incredible meeting with him.”

The peace talks, scheduled for Thursday, will be facilitated by Türkiye and will be the first direct talks between Russia and Ukraine since early 2022.

Kellogg expressed optimism about the potential for breakthroughs if both leaders attend, stating, “President Trump, he has the art of the deal. He really knows how to make it work. And if he shows up… Zelenskyy will be there, and if Putin shows up, I think we’re a lot closer to a deal than many people think.”

Kellogg revealed that the negotiators have prepared a "term sheet" outlining the areas of discussion, with a ceasefire being the primary focus. He added, “We’ll be there and we’ll see what happens.”

In addition to Kellogg, US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff also intends to participate in the talks, according to an unnamed White House official.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has confirmed his participation, while President Putin has indicated he is open to talks without preconditions, though he has not yet confirmed his attendance.

Trump had earlier described the upcoming talks as “a potentially great day for Russia and Ukraine” and expressed interest in attending, although his current Gulf tour schedule may prevent him from participating.

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