Deep Dive: Zelensky expects imminent joint meeting with Trump and Putin after trilateral talks

From the geopolitical analyst's perspective, this development signals a potential shift in the dynamics of the Ukraine-Russia conflict, where the United States under President Trump is positioning itself as a pivotal mediator between Ukraine and Russia. Historically, the conflict escalated with Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, rooted in longstanding tensions over NATO expansion, Ukrainian sovereignty, and Russian strategic interests in the Black Sea region and post-Soviet sphere. Zelensky's expectation of a leaders' summit following March trilateral talks underscores Trump's deal-making approach to foreign policy, contrasting with prior multilateral formats like the Normandy Format involving France and Germany, which yielded limited progress. The international affairs correspondent highlights the cross-border implications of such a summit, potentially affecting NATO cohesion, European energy security, and global food supplies disrupted by Black Sea grain export blockades. Key actors include Ukraine seeking territorial integrity and security guarantees, Russia pursuing recognition of annexed regions and demilitarization, and the US aiming to reduce its aid commitments while claiming diplomatic victory. This trilateral framework bypasses broader European involvement, raising questions about buy-in from EU nations heavily invested in sanctions against Russia. Regionally, the intelligence expert notes the cultural and historical context of Eastern Europe's divided identities, where Ukraine's post-Maidan pivot westward clashes with Russia's narrative of historical unity. Stakeholders extend to displaced Ukrainians, Russian conscripts, and Eastern European neighbors fearing spillover. Implications include possible de-escalation easing humanitarian crises, but risks of concessions undermining international law on territorial aggression. Outlook hinges on March talks' outcomes, with success potentially reshaping power balances or failure prolonging stalemate.