Kremlin message on Trump-Putin summit: 'A meeting is necessary'

Kremlin Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, in today's press briefing, evaluated US President Donald Trump's remarks that he would 'meet as soon as possible' with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin.

Responding to a question about a potential meeting, Peskov said, "A summit meeting must be well-prepared and yield results, because before a summit, there are always expert meetings, consultations, and long and arduous preparations," and continued his remarks as follows:

Such a meeting is absolutely necessary. It is necessary both in terms of bilateral Russia-US relations and, of course, for holding a serious discussion at the highest level regarding international issues and regional processes, including the Ukraine crisis. Undoubtedly, contacts between President Putin and Trump are extremely important in the context of a resolution in Ukraine. We certainly agree with this thesis. It is hard to overstate its importance.

In today's press briefing, Peskov also provided the following information:

No concrete proposal has been received regarding the resumption of the Russia-NATO Council's work.

It is currently difficult to talk about restarting the partnership between Russia and NATO. The alliance is effectively at war with Russia.

It is necessary to discuss all issues related to security and stability on the European continent. This needs to be done as soon as possible.

Putin will hold a meeting with permanent members of the Security Council today.

Putin may hold an international phone call in the evening.