Trump Says Putin Wants a Ukraine Deal as Talks Push Continues

In early September 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump said he had a "great conversation" with Russian President Vladimir Putin and that Putin "wants to make a deal" on Ukraine. Trump also said a trilateral meeting involving the United States, Russia and Ukraine "could happen." Russia's government said it hopes U.S.-mediated talks with Ukraine will resume soon.

Separately, reports said U.S. spy chief John Ratcliffe is preparing for a larger role in the Russia-Ukraine talks. The statements point to ongoing diplomatic contacts, though no new talks or agreements have been confirmed.