During a press conference at the Kremlin today, Russian President Vladimir Putin suggested the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as a suitable location for a meeting with US President Donald Trump.

"Many friends are ready to help us organize such an event, including the UAE," Putin said, speaking alongside UAE leader Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, adding that the Middle Eastern nation is "quite a suitable location".

Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin on 7/8. Photo: AP

Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin on 7/8. Photo: AP

Regarding a potential meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Putin stated the time isn't right.

"In principle, I'm not against it. A meeting could take place, but suitable conditions need to be established. Unfortunately, we are still far from those conditions," he said.

Zelensky previously posted on social media that he isn't afraid to meet with the Russian leader. "Ukraine is not afraid of meetings and expects the Russian side to also choose this courageous approach. It's time for us to end the war," Zelensky wrote.

Putin mentioned the possibility of meeting Zelensky in June but emphasized such a meeting would only occur "at the final stage" when both sides have agreed on the terms of an agreement to end the conflict.

Kremlin foreign policy advisor Yuri Ushakov confirmed on 7/8 that the Russia-US summit is expected to take place next week, but didn't specify the location or time. Regarding US special envoy Steve Witkoff's suggestion of a trilateral meeting including Zelensky, Ushakov said Russia "has no comment on this".

The Russia-US summit is a positive sign, suggesting a slight de-escalation of tensions between the two countries. Relations had previously escalated when Trump issued an ultimatum, threatening sanctions if Russia didn't reach a ceasefire agreement in Ukraine by 8/8.

Three rounds of direct talks between Russian and Ukrainian delegations in Turkey previously failed to achieve any progress on a ceasefire, despite urging from Trump.

Meanwhile, Ukraine and European countries are concerned Trump might side with Putin to pressure Zelensky into accepting unfavorable terms.

Zelensky held phone calls today with the leaders of Germany, France, and the president of the European Commission. The Ukrainian president urged Europe's involvement in the peace process, as the war is taking place in Europe and Kiev is in the process of negotiating to join the European Union.

Nhu Tam (According to AFP, Reuters)