On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One that he may consider traveling to Turkey for talks on the Ukraine conflict, provided Russian President Vladimir Putin also agrees to attend.

Trump stated, “I don't know that he (Putin) would be there if I'm not there. I know he would like me to be there, and that's a possibility. If we could end the war, I'd be thinking about that.”

Trump made these remarks while en route from Saudi Arabia to Qatar, highlighting the potential for direct discussions on resolving the ongoing Ukraine crisis. He emphasized that while he was already scheduled to be in the United Arab Emirates on Thursday, he would consider changing his plans if it could help end the war.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged Putin to attend the scheduled meeting in Turkey this week, stressing that Putin’s absence would signal Moscow’s unwillingness to pursue peace. Although Putin has expressed interest in negotiations, Russia has yet to confirm whether he would attend the summit.

Trump’s remarks come as diplomatic pressure mounts for a direct meeting between the leaders to address the crisis. Ukraine has been seeking peace talks for months, and Zelensky's call for face-to-face discussions shows the urgency of finding a resolution.

US officials and negotiations amid Gulf tour

Trump’s comments on the Turkey talks come as he continues his Gulf tour. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is already set to visit Istanbul on Friday to further discussions surrounding the Ukraine conflict.

Trump praised Rubio’s efforts, noting, "Marco is going, and Marco has been very effective," underscoring the US administration's push for diplomatic engagement in the region.

Last March, Rubio met with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. During their meeting, the US Secretary of State requested Turkey's support in facilitating a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. Rubio also emphasized the importance of strengthening economic partnerships between the two NATO allies and addressed ongoing defense issues, including US sanctions on Turkey and Turkey's exclusion from the F-35 fighter jet program.

Met with Turkish Foreign Minister @HakanFidan today to discuss collaboration on trade and security benefiting both our countries. The U.S. is building on recent trade advancements made with Türkiye. We're also partnering together on key issues, from peace in Ukraine and the South… pic.twitter.com/0JkCxQRdKw

— Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio) March 25, 2025

Additionally, the discussions touched on regional stability concerns, such as the situation in Syria and the need for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza.

The potential for US-Russia talks in Turkey could be a significant turning point in the Ukraine war. Trump, who had vowed to end the war immediately upon taking office, has grown increasingly frustrated after Russia declined an earlier offer for a 30-day ceasefire. A successful summit could pave the way for direct peace talks, offering a glimmer of hope for de-escalation.