Trump to Meet Putin in Budapest as U.S. Eyes Ukraine Peace Talks

Following a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Budapest, Hungary, to discuss an end to the ongoing war in Ukraine. The meeting, expected within the next two weeks, marks the second face-to-face encounter between the leaders during Trump’s second term.

Trump described his recent phone call with Putin as “great progress” and noted that the Russian president had congratulated him on the “great accomplishment of peace in the Middle East.” In a Truth Social post, Trump said, “President Putin and I will meet in an agreed-upon location, Budapest, Hungary, to see if we can bring this ‘inglorious’ war between Russia and Ukraine to an end.”

---

U.S. Military Leverage: Tomahawk Missiles

The administration is reportedly considering sending long-range Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine as a potential bargaining tool in the negotiations with Moscow. Trump is set to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House on Friday, where the missile supply is expected to be discussed.

Earlier this week, Trump indicated he might use the potential missile deployment as leverage, telling reporters, “Look: if this war is not going to get settled, I’m going to send them Tomahawks.” U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also signaled enhanced military support for Kyiv, promising additional “firepower” without specifying weapon systems.

---

Global Implications

The Budapest meeting underscores a shift in U.S. focus from the Middle East to Eastern Europe, as the administration seeks to accelerate diplomatic efforts to end the Ukraine conflict. Analysts say the ceasefire in Gaza has allowed the U.S. to redirect attention and resources toward resolving the protracted war with Russia, which has strained global security and energy markets.