Trump plans to meet Putin in Alaska to seek a ceasefire and negotiate the return of Ukrainian lands, and he will promptly contact President Zelensky following the talks.
Donald Trump on Meeting with Vladimir Putin
During a Monday press conference, President Trump announced his intention to speak directly with President Putin. He told the crowd that the war must end and that Putin needs to bring it to a close. Trump emphasized that it would be a sign of respect for the Russian leader to come to the United States, unlike previous scenarios where the U.S. might travel to Russia or another country. He added that he hopes for “constructive discussions” and will “immediately call European leaders” after the meeting. Trump also stated he would “right after the meeting call President Zelensky and European leaders.” He clarified that President Zelensky will not participate in the Friday talks with Putin, saying he could join but has attended many meetings in the last 3½ years with no results.
He Wants a Ceasefire
Trump declared that he wants to see a ceasefire and a deal that works best for both sides. He said that “probably within the first two minutes of the meeting with Putin I will know whether a deal can be reached.” He criticized President Zelensky, expressing concern over the need for constitutional approval to wage war and the prospect of territorial exchanges. Trump noted that Russia has captured significant Ukrainian territory and that the U.S. will try to recover some of that land for Ukraine, although the seized area is very important.
Alaska Summit between Trump and Putin
The U.S. and Russian leaders are set to discuss ways to end the war in Ukraine on Friday in Alaska—a symbolic location that once belonged to Russia before becoming a U.S. state in 1959. Vice‑President J.D. Vance reported that the U.S. is working to schedule talks between President Zelensky and President Putin. In an interview with Fox News, the politician said that a meeting between Putin and Zelensky before the Russian leader’s visit to the U.S. would not produce the desired results.
Ukraine President’s Remarks on Talks with Russia
Zelensky said that Russia has made no real steps toward peace, neither on the ground nor in the air, and that sanctions and pressure are needed. He emphasized the necessity of U.S., European, and global strength to achieve real peace. Zelensky praised President Trump’s determination to end the killings and warned that the only cause for the violence is Putin’s desire to wage war and manipulate all who come into contact with him.
Kaynaklar
Conference of Donald Trump; Speech of Volodymyr Zelensky; IAR
