Putin Proposes Trump-Xi Summit to End Ukraine War, Excluding Zelenskyy

Key points

• Putin suggested a summit with Trump and Xi on Oct. 9, potentially at the APEC meeting in Shenzhen in November.
• The proposed meeting would exclude Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
• The call also resulted in a deal for Moscow to sell diesel oil globally.
• Trump lifted sanctions on Russian diesel exports, drawing criticism from Zelenskyy and European allies.
• Ukraine resumed strikes on Russian energy infrastructure after a brief pause, citing lack of reciprocal action from Moscow.

Background

This development follows a series of diplomatic tensions in late 2026. In September, a bipartisan group of 14 US senators urged Trump to rescind an invitation for Putin to attend the December G20 summit in Miami, arguing it legitimizes Russian aggression. European allies have consistently criticized US moves that appear to normalize relations with Moscow, such as the G20 invitation and recent sanctions waivers. The current dispute over Starlink restrictions and energy strikes adds to the strain in US-Ukraine relations, with Kyiv accusing Washington of actions that favor Russian interests.

Why it matters

The potential summit signals a shift in US foreign policy toward accommodating Russia, potentially at the expense of Ukraine's negotiating position. Excluding Zelenskyy from peace talks could undermine Ukraine's sovereignty and influence over the outcome. The sanctions relief on Russian diesel may provide Moscow with financial resources to prolong the conflict, while the Starlink restrictions highlight growing friction between US and Ukrainian military cooperation.

What to watch

The summit remains unconfirmed, but if it occurs, it will likely take place at the APEC summit in Shenzhen in November. The outcome of the diesel deal and the status of Starlink restrictions will be key indicators of the direction of US-Russia and US-Ukraine relations. European allies and US lawmakers may continue to pressure the administration to reconsider its approach to Russia.