The Kremlin announced that discussions are being arranged at an expert level through the foreign affairs ministries. A meeting between Trump and Putin remains a possibility, but will occur only after thorough preparations.
Additionally, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy plans to visit Washington later this week. This trip is expected to involve a deal concerning mineral resources, though the Kremlin has not provided specific details, stating the purpose remains uncertain until official statements are made.
These diplomatic events will shape the next few weeks. The fact that officials are working through foreign affairs ministries suggests both sides aim to avoid any missteps before higher-level talks take place. The Kremlin’s approach implies that a meeting between Trump and Putin is not imminent, and if it happens at all, it will come after detailed arrangements. That means there will be time to observe shifts in rhetoric and policy before anything binding is agreed upon. This process moves slowly, but the expectation that discussions are advancing creates room for speculation in the short term.
Meanwhile, Zelenskyy’s planned visit brings another layer to this. While Moscow has not disclosed a specific concern about the trip, it is watching closely. A deal involving mineral resources could change supply expectations, depending on the outcome. If agreements in Washington lead to stronger commitments on critical materials, that would affect both regional economies and broader trade relationships. Moscow will respond accordingly. Even before any formal announcement, the expectation alone will lead to repositioning.
Throughout this period, keeping a close watch on developments in these diplomatic talks will be necessary. Markets are not waiting for final agreements—they adjust as events unfold. What matters most is not just what is said, but who says it and how directly. Since these discussions involve multiple countries with distinct goals, statements from each party will need to be assessed separately. Some will be meant to reassure, others will be tests to gauge reactions. It is not just about whether meetings happen, but about the steps leading to them.
This is not a moment when assumptions will hold for long. The next statements from the Kremlin or Washington could quickly shift expectations in either direction. Those involved will need to parse official remarks carefully. Words will be chosen for a reason, and the timing of each message will indicate what is being prioritised. After all, these negotiations do not happen in isolation—each move will be measured against the others.
