Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov announced on Sunday that any potential in-person meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump must undergo “proper preparation” and will require detailed technical negotiations beforehand.

In an interview with Russian journalist Pavel Zarubin, Peskov discussed the recent phone conversation between the two leaders, describing it as taking place in “an absolutely trusting, frank, constructive working atmosphere.” According to Peskov, the call was likely one of the longest discussions ever held between the heads of the US and Russian states. He also hinted that there may have been additional, unofficial communications between Putin and Trump not publicly disclosed.

“It was a very substantive conversation. The preparation of a personal meeting between the presidents should be carefully thought out and professionally handled. These kinds of meetings cannot happen spontaneously,” Peskov stated during the televised interview.

The Kremlin emphasized the strategic importance of any direct engagement between Putin and Trump, noting that discussions must be supported by prior negotiation and coordination at multiple levels. While no date or location for a summit has been officially confirmed, the need for groundwork reflects the weight both sides place on diplomacy amid high geopolitical tensions.

The conversation between the two leaders reportedly covered multiple areas of concern, although the Kremlin has not disclosed full details. The emphasis on a constructive tone suggests an interest from both Moscow and Washington in maintaining open channels, even as broader relations remain strained—particularly in light of the conflict in Ukraine and the implications for international stability.

As part of ongoing diplomatic efforts, delegations from the United States and Russia are scheduled to meet in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Monday. The talks are expected to focus on the Ukraine conflict and potential pathways toward de-escalation or coordinated approaches to regional security challenges. These meetings follow months of sporadic communication and previous summits that have yielded limited progress but maintained diplomatic dialogue.

Peskov’s remarks also underline the significance Russia places on personal diplomacy, particularly involving President Putin. The mention of “difficult technical negotiations” signals the complexity of bilateral discussions and the range of issues likely on the table, from military activity to economic sanctions and global alliances.

While the Kremlin’s comments stop short of confirming a future meeting, they clearly indicate readiness on the Russian side to engage further—provided conditions for substantive dialogue are met. Whether the United States reciprocates that willingness in coming weeks remains to be seen.

Observers will closely watch the outcome of the Riyadh meetings, which could either pave the way for a high-level summit or highlight the enduring challenges in US-Russia relations. For now, the conversation between Putin and Trump signals a tentative step forward in a complex geopolitical landscape.