US diplomatic initiatives under President Trump, including a proposed energy ceasefire and diesel export arrangements with Russia, represent the primary recent catalyst shaping expectations around direct Putin-Zelenskyy talks. Moscow has continued strikes on Ukrainian energy facilities despite the announcement and rejected temporary ceasefires in favor of comprehensive peace agreements, while insisting any negotiations occur on Russian terms or in Moscow. Zelenskyy has signaled openness to trilateral formats involving US envoys and a 60-day full ceasefire to enable elections, yet the Kremlin has downplayed immediate resumption of talks following Ukrainian drone activity. Ongoing contacts between Washington and both sides, alongside stalled proposals for meetings at events like the G20, highlight persistent barriers tied to territorial demands, security guarantees, and sequencing of de-escalation steps.