Trump to attend Victory Day in Moscow, possible Putin meeting: Reports
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that any meeting between the two Presidents depends on progress toward resolving the war.
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Russian Air Force Su-25 jets fly over Red Square leaving trails of smoke in the colours of the Russian national flag during the Victory Day military parade in Moscow, Russia, Thursday, May 9, 2024, marking the 79th anniversary of the end of World War II (AP Photo)
US President Donald Trump is reportedly set to travel to Moscow on May 9 to participate in Russia's Victory Day celebrations, commemorating the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.
According to French magazine Le Point, unnamed sources indicated Trump's visit will include a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov clarified that while there is an understanding of the need for the meeting, specific details have yet to be finalized.
The possibility of a face-to-face discussion between the two leaders hinges on developments in the ongoing Ukraine conflict. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that any meeting depends on progress toward resolving the war.
US-Russia Talks in Riyadh: Progress on Ukraine
Leading up to this potential summit, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held crucial talks in Riyadh.
These discussions addressed the future of US-Russia relations and the war in Ukraine, signaling a possible diplomatic shift. The American delegation included US Special Envoy for the Middle East Steve Witkoff and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz.
Witkoff characterized the meeting as "very constructive," noting, "The US side could not have imagined a better result."
Read more: Russia asked US to withdraw NATO from eastern Europe: Financial Times
Victory Day and Diplomatic Context
Victory Day on May 9 holds significant historical importance in Russia, marking the defeat of Nazi Germany in 1945. Trump's potential attendance at the event has drawn international attention, given the ongoing geopolitical tensions surrounding Ukraine.
While details of the meeting between Trump and Putin remain uncertain, both nations appear to be exploring avenues for dialogue and diplomacy.
Speaking to reporters earlier today, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated, "The dialogue between Russia and the United States is one thing, but the beginning of cooperation in the field of technology development is another matter. So it has not come to that yet."