Russia and Ukraine edge closer to peace talks as Moscow weighs Putin-Zelensky-Trump summit

Russia and Ukraine are moving closer to potential peace negotiations, with Moscow confirming discussions are underway for a possible trilateral summit involving Vladimir Putin, Volodymyr Zelensky, and Donald Trump. Russia has signaled readiness to resume talks in November, likely in Abu Dhabi. The diplomatic push follows a meeting between Putin and US envoy Steve Witkoff in St. Petersburg. Zelensky has proposed freezing the conflict along the current front line to start negotiations, while Trump stated the war's end is approaching. However, Russia launched a massive overnight attack on Kiev, killing at least nine people across Ukraine. Russian officials claim progress toward a long-term peace, while European nations are reportedly seeking a negotiator to engage directly with Putin. A US citizen detained in Russia for four years was released, with Witkoff praising Putin's "compassionate" gesture.