Chinese officials confirmed Wednesday that discussions are underway for a potential trilateral meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Shenzhen.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning told reporters that Beijing is maintaining communication with relevant parties regarding a meeting of the three heads of state. The summit is scheduled for November 18-19.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Tuesday that work is underway to coordinate the meeting and expressed hope that arrangements would be finalized in the coming days. Peskov noted a common understanding among participants that such a gathering would be appropriate and highly useful, with China serving as the main organizing force as host.

The proposed meeting marks the first trilateral summit of its kind among the three leaders. Russian officials have indicated preparations began weeks ago, with Kremlin foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov stating in late October that Moscow, Beijing, and Washington were in principle ready to proceed.

The idea originated from Russian proposals earlier this fall to discuss the war in Ukraine, though Trump has emphasized topics such as denuclearization. Ukrainian officials have criticized the format, arguing that any talks on ending the conflict should include Kyiv.

All three leaders are expected to attend the APEC gathering. The development comes amid ongoing diplomatic efforts involving the major powers, including prior bilateral meetings between the pairs of leaders this year.

European leaders have expressed concerns about potential discussions on Ukraine occurring without their involvement or that of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. No agenda has been confirmed publicly, and Chinese statements have focused on the communications rather than specific topics.

The APEC summit provides a venue for the leaders to gather, though final confirmation of the trilateral session depends on further coordination among the three capitals.