The Trump-Putin Alaska summit ended without a ceasefire, as both leaders emphasized pursuing a direct peace agreement to resolve Ukraine’s war. The summit ended with both leaders emphasizing a peace settlement rather than a fragile ceasefire, leaving Ukraine facing difficult choices.
Leaders Meet in Anchorage to Discuss War Resolution
President Donald Trump met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Anchorage for nearly three hours, calling the talks productive but confirming unresolved differences. The summit marked the first US-Russia talks since Moscow launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Both leaders described the meeting as productive, though they admitted several significant obstacles remain unresolved after lengthy private negotiations. Trump stated that all parties determined that a full peace agreement offers the best chance to stop bloodshed. He argued that the ceasefires often collapsed, repeating that only a permanent peace agreement could end the devastating conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Ukraine’s Role and Security Guarantees
Trump announced he would meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House on Monday to continue discussing possible next steps. Following a private call with Trump, Zelenskyy expressed readiness for constructive cooperation and supported the idea of a trilateral summit.
He reiterated Ukraine’s demand for binding international security guarantees to prevent Russia from launching future invasions. However, Putin did not mention what Zelenskyy and Russian officials had downplayed: the possibility of three-way negotiations.
Negotiated Points and US Position
Trump stated that negotiations included land swaps and potential security guarantees for Ukraine. He said the leaders came pretty close to an agreement, though Ukraine still had to approve the discussed proposals.
Trump said that Ukraine must make a deal, stressing that Russia remains a powerful nation while still acknowledging Ukraine’s determination and resilience. Analysts highlighted Trump’s willingness to push Kyiv toward negotiations and shift responsibilities for progress to Ukraine and its European partners.
Putin’s Diplomatic Victory
For Putin, attending the summit represented a significant diplomatic victory after years of isolation by Western leaders. Trump welcomed Putin with a red carpet greeting and a lengthy handshake, setting a cordial tone despite unresolved disputes.
Russian officials highlighted the event as proof Moscow was not isolated, noting the fanfare contradicted years of Western media claims. Putin described the talks as productive, insisting Ukraine’s security must be guaranteed, but warned Europe and Kyiv against obstructing progress.
European Criticism and Western Concerns
European officials reacted negatively, saying Trump offered symbolic recognition without a concrete commitment to protecting Ukraine or reinforcing NATO unity. Wolfgang Ischinger, a former German ambassador, declared that Putin got his red carpet treatment while Trump got nothing in return.
Analysts argued Putin benefited most by gaining legitimacy without making concessions, though Trump avoided appearing to side with Russia completely. Despite criticism, Trump rated the summit 10 out of 10 and expressed optimism about meeting Putin again, possibly in Moscow. The meeting left hopes of peace alive, but doubts remained over Ukraine’s sovereignty and security being effectively guaranteed.
