Washington: US Vice President JD Vance stated on Sunday that any negotiated deal between Russia and Ukraine is unlikely to satisfy either party completely, as the Trump administration aims to facilitate a trilateral meeting involving the leaders of Russia and Ukraine. Vance mentioned on Fox News that both countries are expected to find some aspects of the deal unsatisfactory.
According to Anadolu Agency, the Trump administration is actively pursuing a negotiated settlement that both Russia and Ukraine can accept, aiming for a scenario where peace prevails and hostilities cease. Vance highlighted that a significant diplomatic barrier has been overcome, with President Donald Trump convincing Russian President Vladimir Putin to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Vance explained that one of the major challenges was Putin's previous refusal to engage directly with Zelenskyy. However, this stance has shifted due to Trump's influence. The administration is now focused on organizing a meeting between the three leaders, as Trump and Putin are scheduled to discuss the ongoing conflict during an upcoming meeting in Alaska.
When questioned about whether Putin should meet Zelenskyy prior to meeting Trump, Vance expressed that it might not be beneficial. He emphasized the role of the US President as a mediator in facilitating dialogue between the two nations. Putin recently indicated his openness to a trilateral meeting, provided the appropriate conditions are established. NBC News reported that the White House is considering inviting Zelenskyy to Alaska.
In addition to the Russia-Ukraine negotiations, the US is exercising caution regarding potential tariffs on China, in the context of Russian oil purchases. Vice President Vance noted that while President Trump is contemplating similar tariffs as those imposed on India, no definitive decisions have been made. He acknowledged the complexity of US-China relations, which extend beyond the Russian issue.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent previously remarked that the US will not engage in competition with China regarding sovereignty on Russian oil matters, recognizing China's serious stance on sovereignty. Trump has already increased tariffs on India due to Russian oil dealings and has warned of potential tariffs on other countries trading with Russia without progress on the Ukraine situation.