Preparations underway: Date set for Putin and Zelensky meeting

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz made significant statements following a meeting at the White House with US President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, and other European leaders. Merz stated that a summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Zelensky is planned to take place within two weeks.

Merz emphasized that a ceasefire must first be achieved for this meeting to occur. He also drew attention to the importance of making comprehensive preparations for such a summit. "We do not know if the Russian President will have the courage to attend such a summit. Therefore, persuasion efforts are needed," he said.

During the meeting, it was shared that US President Trump had held a phone call with the Russian President and that the two leaders had agreed to meet within the next two weeks. However, the location of the meeting has not yet been clarified.

Merz touched upon the importance of such diplomatic efforts to protect Europe's common interests and support Ukraine, noting that Ukraine must also be included in this process.