Markets Surge Ahead of Trump-Putin Ukraine Summit

Global markets rallied after the Kremlin confirmed an imminent summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump, marking their first meeting since the Ukraine invasion. Hopes for a truce in the Russia-Ukraine war boosted Ukrainian bonds, with the 2035 note and GDP-linked warrants posting strong gains. Russian assets including the rouble and MOEX index surged, led by companies like Gazprom and Yandex. European shares advanced, with the Stoxx Europe 600 benefiting from peace optimism and declining oil prices. Market sentiment was also lifted by upbeat corporate earnings and speculation about U.S. tariff exemptions and possible Federal Reserve rate cuts. Investors view the proposed summit as a potential breakthrough toward ending the conflict and supporting global markets.