Putin greets Trump as a “dear neighbour” during the Alaska Summit despite no progress on ending the Ukraine war.
The Alaska Summit between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin ended without a breakthrough on Ukraine. Trump left empty-handed. Putin returned with validation, his first Western visit since 2015, giving him long-sought diplomatic recognition.
The summit showed Trump’s promises to end the war were easier said than done. Despite harsh words against Putin, Trump failed to extract even a pause in fighting. Rather, Putin signalled further interaction by inviting Trump to Moscow and applauding the “friendly tone”.
Trump arrived with confidence. He wanted to show his dealmaking skills and deliver peace. He had pledged to end the Ukraine war on his first day back in office. Seven months later, that promise looks broken. On the battlefield, Russia made gains. Ukraine is still resisting, but it faces shortages and bombardment.
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Trump reduced US military support to Kyiv and berated President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the Oval Office. Yet he failed to push Putin into concessions. His words, “there’s no deal until there’s a deal,” highlighted the wide gulf between both sides.
Putin, meanwhile, left Alaska with a victory. Western nations have tried for years to isolate him. The summit gave him legitimacy without concessions. He called Trump a “dear neighbour” and showcased himself as open to dialogue. His invitation to meet “next time in Moscow” underscored his confidence.
For Putin, every handshake on Western soil weakens sanctions pressure. For Trump, every smile looked hollow when paired with his failure to bring peace.
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The summit also tested Trump’s credibility as a self-proclaimed peacemaker. He often boasts of ending more wars than any other president. This empty-hand return does not strengthen that claim. Instead, it exposes a leadership gap. His partial blame on Zelenskyy to “get it done” showed limited US leverage and little willingness to shoulder responsibility.
For American allies, this raises doubts about Washington’s ability to lead. For Ukraine, it means fighting on without a stronger hand from its most powerful partner.
The Alaska Summit was Trump’s biggest diplomatic stage yet. It ended with no ceasefire, no sanctions relief, and no plan forward. Putin secured recognition. Trump secured nothing but headlines.
ALSO READ: Trump, Putin Arrive in Alaska to Tackle Russia-Ukraine Conflict in Peace Talks
The war grinds on across a 600-mile front line, draining both sides. Ukraine has endured longer than many predicted, but the cost grows heavier by the day. Trump promised more talks, but if they don't produce results, he will be politically vulnerable.
