Russian officials have dismissed reports claiming that plans for a meeting between President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump were halted, alleging that Ukraine’s European backers are attempting to disrupt diplomatic efforts. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov stated on Tuesday that preparations for the “significant event” remain ongoing, with both leaders agreeing to hold it in Budapest during a recent phone call. He described media claims of a postponement as “infodumps” aimed at undermining progress. Ryabkov criticized EU and NATO countries, calling the European Union “the most destructive force on the international stage.” Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova dismissed Western media coverage as an “info-circus,” suggesting reports based on anonymous sources were mere speculation. The remarks followed a report citing unnamed sources claiming preparations for the summit had been paused, with delays attributed to stalled negotiations. Moscow has repeatedly accused European governments supporting Ukraine of prolonging the conflict rather than advocating for peace talks. Meanwhile, Hungary, the planned host country, has opposed Western efforts to strain relations with Russia and the EU’s military support for Ukraine.