• Trump plans to meet Putin "as soon as we can set it up" to address the Ukraine conflict.
• Putin skipped recent peace talks due to Trump's absence in Turkey.
• Ukraine demands a 30-day ceasefire, which Russia has yet to accept.
• Trump emphasizes urgency, noting thousands are dying weekly in the conflict.
• Kremlin acknowledges need for a prepared dialogue on the crisis.

U.S. President Donald Trump stated his readiness to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin "as soon as we can set it up" to work towards resolving the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Speaking to reporters in the United Arab Emirates, he made clear, "It's time for us to do it," highlighting the urgency of the situation, where he noted, "five thousand young people are being killed every single week on average," according to Newsweek, aa, and CBS News.

During his trip, Trump mentioned his intention to return to the U.S. after visiting the UAE, where he wants to see his newborn grandson. He expressed that establishing face-to-face talks with Putin is critical, emphasizing that no significant resolution will occur until they convene, saying, "I don't believe anything's going to happen" otherwise, according to Newsweek and aa.

Regarding the peace talks in Istanbul, Trump reiterated that he was not surprised by Putin's absence, declaring that the Russian leader's decision stemmed from Trump's absence at those discussions. He noted there were ongoing negotiations but indicated low expectations, as Putin sent a lower-level delegation, prompting skepticism about Moscow's willingness to engage, according to CBS News.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had expressed willingness to agree to a U.S.-proposed 30-day ceasefire, but Russia has not yet committed to this proposal. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov remarked that any forthcoming meeting with Trump would require thorough preparation, acknowledging the importance of dialogue to address international issues, highlighting the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, according to Newsweek and CBS News.