Maintaining the EU's relations with Central and Eastern European countries has been a focus, with multiple measures implemented by the Commission to ensure these connections remain steadfast.

In the unfolding diplomatic landscape, a proposed three-way meeting between the presidents of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Russia, Vladimir Putin, and the United States, Donald Trump, is shaping up as a possibility. However, several hurdles remain, making the outcome uncertain.

The latest developments suggest that Budapest, Hungary, could be the venue for this historic meeting. The Hungarian capital was proposed by the Hungarian Foreign Minister as part of efforts to push for peace talks amid the ongoing conflict. Yet, the exact location is yet to be confirmed, and extensive diplomatic and security arrangements would be required.

Putin has repeatedly refused to meet Zelenskyy formally, questioning Zelenskyy’s legitimacy and showing reluctance to negotiate directly. However, he may agree if pressured, although a successful meeting and negotiations are uncertain. Putin has confirmed a direct meeting with Zelensky in the coming weeks, but Moscow has refrained from commenting on the venue.

Trump has expressed a religious motivation for efforts towards a peaceful solution, stating he is trying to get into heaven if that's possible. The US President has ruled out the deployment of US troops in a potential peacekeeping force but has suggested the possibility of providing air support.

Europeans are called upon to work together with the USA to create security guarantees that would put real pressure on Moscow. This view is shared by Ben Hodges, the former commander of US forces in Europe, who believes tens of thousands of European soldiers are needed for an effective protection of Ukraine. Germany, France, and the UK are reportedly ready to send soldiers to Ukraine to secure a potential peace.

The White House has not commented on the possible venue for the Zelensky-Putin meeting or the three-way summit in Budapest. However, the Secret Service is preparing for a possible meeting involving Trump.

Trump has previously had "very successful" meetings with both Zelensky and Putin, and he wants to see how the meeting between them goes before his own. Russia, on the other hand, has previously rejected Zelensky’s demands for a quick meeting with Putin, using the argument that contacts involving heads of state must be prepared with care.

The EU and Ukraine view Russia’s invasion as an illegal breach of international law. Any peace discussions must consider these legal frameworks, including the Budapest Memorandum on security assurances.

In summary, a meeting in Budapest involving the three leaders remains a possibility but faces significant political, logistical, and diplomatic obstacles. If it happens, it could be a critical step toward dialogue but may not guarantee immediate breakthroughs due to entrenched disputes and mutual distrust. The White House confirmed that Putin has agreed to a summit with Zelensky, but there has been no clear word from Moscow on this. The upcoming meeting between Zelensky and Putin is planned to precede the potential three-way summit.

Maintaining the EU's relations with Central and Eastern European countries has been a focus, with multiple measures implemented by the Commission to ensure these connections remain steadfast.