In an interview with Gazeta.pl, Oleksandr Merezhko, chair of Ukraine’s Foreign Affairs Committee, claims Trump’s Alaska meeting with Vladimir Putin was a triumph for the Russian leader and a defeat for the U.S. president, offering no real benefit to Ukraine.
Putin Wins Image Battle
Trump’s encounter with Putin in Alaska turned into a propaganda win for Russia. Merezhko notes that Putin successfully projected an image of a leader from a great power engaging with another great power on the “third party” issue – Ukraine – a narrative Polish media consider a goldmine.
Sanctions Evaded
Putin also sidestepped potential sanctions. Though U.S. senators initially promised tough measures contingent upon a cease‑fire, Putin dismissed the brake and rejected any partial solutions, insisting on a comprehensive deal. Trump never followed through with the promised sanctions, leaving Putin free of new restrictions.
Trump Shuns Promise
Trump attempted to bolster his reputation as a master negotiator. He aimed to demonstrate his diplomatic prowess, yet no concrete results emerged. The president failed to strengthen his “deal‑maker” image, delivering only a spectacle devoid of agreements.
Dramatic Diplomatic Blunder
Unlike traditional diplomacy that involves extensive preparation with all stakeholders, including Ukraine and European partners, Trump chose improvisation. He expected to persuade Putin within a few hours, a confident but ultimately reckless approach. The lack of prior groundwork meant Trump’s approach was self‑centered and ineffective.
Risk to Ukraine
Merezhko warns that even if a future summit were to occur without Ukraine and European partners, it would pose severe risks. A format excluding Europe could leave Ukraine uncertain of U.S. support, potentially even undermining it. The threat of a tripartite arrangement sans European involvement remains dangerous.
Conclusion
Putin’s meticulous preparation, coupled with Trump’s improvisation, flipped the meeting into a strategic advantage for Russia. The Kremlin avoided isolation and sanctions while demonstrating that its leadership could negotiate on equal footing. Trump, however, missed the opportunity to leave a lasting, positive impact for Ukraine and the broader international community.
