Trump reportedly backs new mediator for Ukraine–Russia talks – media

The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump is reportedly considering the Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem, Theophilos III, as a potential mediator in negotiations between Ukraine and Russia.

According to Ukrinform, this was reported by the Israeli outlet Ynet.

The publication claims the issue was discussed during a 40-minute meeting between the Patriarch and Trump. The Patriarch is also expected to hold talks with the Russian President later in June.

Theophilos III is regarded as a neutral and influential figure in the Orthodox world. He has previously been involved in humanitarian and diplomatic efforts, including facilitating contacts between Russia and Israel during the release of Naama Issachar.

"His key advantage is being a non-political figure who comes from a position of religious and moral trust," the report said.

People close to Theophilos III believe that the U.S. President is seeking to secure progress in at least one of the world’s major conflict zones and that any movement on the Ukraine track could also influence Washington’s strategic priorities in other theaters.

Read also: FM Sybiha: ‘By refusing direct peace talks, Putin lost his chance to get out of his failed war’

As noted, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently published an open letter proposing a personal meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss ways to end the war.

Trump has also expressed support for the idea of a Zelenskyy–Putin meeting.