U.S. President Donald Trump’s plans for a swift summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Budapest appear to have stalled after a key preparatory meeting between their top diplomats was postponed, CNN reported on Monday. The talks between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov were seen as a crucial step toward organizing what would be the leaders’ second meeting this year.
Why It Matters:
The delay highlights lingering tensions and uncertainty over the future of U.S.-Russia diplomacy, particularly regarding the war in Ukraine. One source told CNN that the postponement may have stemmed from “differing expectations” about how to end the conflict suggesting that, despite Trump’s eagerness to broker a deal, significant policy gaps remain.
The setback could slow Washington’s attempts to restart dialogue with Moscow at a time when global attention is fixed on Ukraine peace efforts and shifting power dynamics in Europe.
Neither Washington nor Moscow provided clear reasons for the postponement. Russia’s foreign ministry described a recent phone call between Rubio and Lavrov as “constructive,” and further discussions are expected later this week. Moscow has publicly said it wants any upcoming summit to address a potential peace settlement in Ukraine as well as broader U.S.-Russia relations.
What’s Next:
The Budapest summit remains on the table, but the timeline is now uncertain. Analysts say progress will depend on whether the U.S. and Russia can align their expectations on Ukraine and reduce mutual mistrust. For Trump, who has touted his ability to “make peace through strength,” the delay may test his broader diplomatic ambitions as tensions between Washington and Moscow persist.
Wit information from Reuters.
