Russian President Vladimir Putin praised US President Donald Trump for making “energetic and sincere” efforts to end the war in Ukraine. His remarks came just a day before the two leaders meet for a crucial US–Russia summit in Alaska.
The war has dragged on for more than three years since Moscow’s invasion. Putin suggested that a lasting peace between the two countries, Europe, and the world could come through a nuclear arms control agreement with the US.
Trump, however, gave the summit a 25% chance of failure. Yet he hinted that if it succeeds, he might invite Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for a three-way meeting in Alaska. European leaders remain cautious, fearing that any deal could benefit Moscow and weaken Ukraine’s position.
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European Leaders on Alert
On Thursday, UK PM Keir Starmer welcomed Zelenskyy to London in a show of British support. A day earlier, Zelenskyy joined a virtual meeting with Trump and several European leaders. Trump assured them that securing a ceasefire would be his top priority when speaking with Putin.
Starmer warned that any peace deal must protect Ukraine’s territorial integrity. He stressed that international borders must never change by force. France and the UK, part of the “coalition of the willing” to police a future peace agreement, want US security backing. French President Emmanuel Macron said Trump clarified that NATO would not be part of future guarantees, but all key parties, including the US, should take part.
Concerns About Sidelining Ukraine
Some in Kyiv fear the US–Russia talks could bypass Ukraine’s interests. Zelenskyy and European leaders worry that bilateral talks might lead to concessions on territory. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Macron described Wednesday’s talks with Trump as constructive but still uncertain.
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Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov lowered expectations, saying no documents would be signed. Talks will include a one-on-one meeting, delegation talks, and a working breakfast. Putin’s adviser, Yuri Ushakov, confirmed a joint news conference, though Trump disputed this.
Mixed Hopes in Ukraine
On the streets of Kyiv, views remain split. Oleksandra Kozlova said Ukrainians have “lost hope” in diplomatic promises. Car salesman Anton Vyshniak believes saving soldiers’ lives should come before territorial disputes.
Zelenskyy announced the release of 84 Ukrainians from Russian captivity, including soldiers from Mariupol. Russia confirmed the same number freed in exchange.
War Continues Despite Talks
Even as leaders prepared for the summit, violence persisted. Russian strikes in Ukraine’s Sumy region injured a young girl and a man. In Russia’s Rostov-on-Don, a Ukrainian drone damaged apartment buildings, injuring 13 civilians.
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