In an interview published on November 22 in International Affairs magazine, Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said a fresh summit between President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump has not been ruled out. "I wouldn't rule anything out," he told reporters, adding that "the search for a way forward continues."
Ryabkov emphasized that, despite public uncertainty, diplomatic channels have remained open throughout 2025. "We are working on an ongoing basis," he noted, pointing to both visible and discreet formats that keep communication flowing.
Earlier this year, Putin and Trump met in Alaska in August, seeking common ground on pressing issues like the Ukraine crisis. A planned follow-up in Budapest was paused in late October after Trump said that "it didn't feel like we were going to get to the place we have to get."
Analysts say consistent dialogue, even when progress seems stalled, is key to de-escalating tensions and building trust. With both capitals highlighting impressive gains in communication, a future face-to-face meeting could help address broader concerns—from arms control to regional conflicts.
As young global citizens track shifting alliances, Ryabkov's comments remind us that diplomacy often advances behind the scenes. Whether a new Putin-Trump summit materializes may hinge on behind-door negotiations and the evolving geopolitical landscape through the end of 2025.
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Russia's Ryabkov says potential Putin-Trump summit is on the agenda
cgtn.com
