Alaska ∙ US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin concluded a highly anticipated summit in Alaska without securing a ceasefire in Ukraine. Despite the lack of a breakthrough, both leaders portrayed the meeting as a success and a step towards future negotiations.
No Ceasefire, but “Good Chance” Ahead
The three-hour talks ended without the expected joint working lunch or detailed announcements. Speaking afterward, Mr Trump said progress had been made but admitted that no final deal was reached.
“We had an extremely productive meeting and many points were agreed to, and there are just a few that are left,” Trump told reporters.
“Some are not that significant – one is probably the most significant – but we have a very good chance of getting there. There’s no deal until there’s a deal.”
Putin: A Starting Point for Restoring Ties
Mr Putin, who warmly praised Trump, framed the summit as a beginning rather than a breakthrough, pushing back on Trump’s earlier claim that it could be a make-or-break moment.
“I expect today’s agreements to serve not just as a basis for the resolution of the Ukrainian problem, but also as a starting point for restoring pragmatic relations between Russia and the United States,” Putin said.
“We have established very good, business-like contact with President Trump. By moving along this path, we can – the quicker the better – reach an end to the conflict in Ukraine.”
Trump to Brief Zelenskiy, Europe
Mr Trump said he would call Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and European leaders to brief them on the outcome. He urged Kyiv to “make a deal” to end Russia’s three-and-a-half-year invasion.
“Now, it’s really up to President Zelenskiy to get it done. European nations also have to get involved a little bit, but it’s up to Zelenskiy,” Trump said in an interview with Fox News.
“They’re going to set up a meeting between Zelenskiy, Putin and myself. I didn’t ask about it… but I want to make sure it gets done.”
Sanctions Threat Softened
On his way to Alaska, Trump had warned Russia of “very severe” economic consequences if talks failed to secure an immediate ceasefire. But after the summit, he appeared to back down from threats of new sanctions.
“Because of what happened today, I don’t have to think about that now. I may have to in two or three weeks, but not right now,” Trump said, noting that he had already delayed heavy tariffs on Russian oil purchases, including those by China.
Russia’s Demands Remain
Mr Putin reiterated that any settlement must address Russia’s “legitimate demands”, which include:
- Permanent control of five Ukrainian regions currently under partial occupation
- A ban on Ukraine ever joining NATO
He also insisted that Russia and the US were playing the role of peacemakers, while portraying Kyiv and Europe as potential obstacles.
“We expect Kyiv and European capitals to see this constructively and not try to torpedo the progress made,” Putin said.
