### Zelenskyy Calls Trump’s Frontline Proposal a "Reasonable Step," Doubts Putin’s Support
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated on Wednesday that former U.S. President Donald Trump’s suggestion for Ukraine and Russia to halt military advances at current frontlines could be a "reasonable step." However, he expressed skepticism about whether Russian President Vladimir Putin would agree, according to Reuters.
During his visit to Nordic countries, Zelenskyy told reporters:
"He [Trump] proposed that both sides hold their positions and begin talks. I believe that’s a reasonable step, but I’m not certain Putin will back it—and I shared this with the [U.S.] president."
The comment followed reports that plans for a meeting between Trump and Putin in Budapest had been postponed, as Ukraine and its European partners pushed for a ceasefire without territorial concessions.
Meanwhile, Russia affirmed on Wednesday that discussions for a potential summit between Putin and Trump were still ongoing.
### Italy Stresses National Sovereignty Over Security Decisions
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni emphasized on Wednesday that European Union member states must retain full authority over national security policies, amid scrutiny from Brussels regarding Italy’s use of special powers to safeguard strategic industries.
Italy has frequently applied "golden power" rules to shield key sectors such as banking, defense, and telecommunications.
Earlier this month, Reuters reported that the EU was preparing action against Italy for policies seen as obstructing bank mergers within the bloc.
In a speech to parliament ahead of an EU leaders’ summit, Meloni reiterated that security decisions must rest with individual nations, aligning with recent remarks by Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti.
*"It is, and must remain, member states who determine these matters,"* Meloni said, according to Reuters.
European Commissioner for Financial Services Maria Luis Albuquerque is expected to meet with Giorgetti in Rome on Thursday.
In July, UniCredit, Italy’s second-largest bank, abandoned its proposed acquisition of Banco BPM, citing government interference. Reports suggest the EU will demand that Italy revise its conditions for the failed deal and review its broader golden power legislation.
### Russia Confirms Ongoing Summit Preparations Despite Delay
Russia confirmed that preparations for a potential meeting between Putin and Trump continue, despite claims that the talks had been postponed.
"We confirm that discussions for a summit are still in progress," officials stated.
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