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Trump and Putin to Meet in Budapest After 'Productive' Call
Above: Donald Trump speaks in the Cabinet Room at the White House on Oct. 14, 2025. Image copyright: Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-Trump narrative
Putin thanked Trump for the success in the Middle East and passed along a message to Melania for her efforts on behalf of the children. The leaders talked at great length about the Ukraine war, and the call was very productive. Zelenskyy will be updated on his visit to the White House. In the meantime, Trump and Putin agreed to meet in Budapest, where this inglorious war can be brought to an end.
Pro-Russia narrative
The Russian president started by thanking the efforts of Trump to stabilize the situation in the Gaza Strip, and Russia outlined its principled position in favor of a comprehensive settlement on a generally recognized international legal basis that would ensure lasting peace for all people in the region. On Ukraine, Putin gave a detailed assessment and stressed Russia's interest in a peaceful resolution through political and diplomatic methods.
Pro-establishment narrative
Trump and Putin agreed to meet in Budapest after their call on Thursday, coming just a day before Zelenskyy was due at the White House. While Trump may be able to strike a deal to end the Russia-Ukraine war, his conciliatory tone following the Putin call is raising old spectres that he may once again capitulate to Moscow.