U.S. President Donald Trump recently held a closed-door meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, lasting over five hours. A key discussion point was a proposed “territorial swap,” in which Putin reportedly demanded that Ukraine cede the eastern Donbas region in exchange for a frozen frontline.
After the meeting, Putin stressed that resolving the Ukraine crisis requires addressing its “root causes,” citing NATO expansion and Kyiv’s pro-Western policies as issues that must end. His ultimate aim remains restoring Moscow’s political influence over Ukraine and reasserting Russia’s presence in Eastern Europe.
Trump indicated that a mere ceasefire is insufficient to end the war, advocating for a “comprehensive peace agreement” and emphasizing that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky would bear responsibility for any territorial decisions.
Zelensky recently expressed willingness to negotiate territory on the condition of a ceasefire and frontline freeze. He reiterated that peace must be “real and lasting,” not a temporary pause during Russia’s invasion. Key conditions include halting attacks on battlefields, skies, and ports; releasing all prisoners of war and returning abducted children; ensuring any territorial deals do not bypass Ukraine; and securing guarantees involving the U.S. and Europe. He also warned that refusal by Russia to engage in trilateral talks or comply with the peace process should prompt stronger Western sanctions.
Zelensky is scheduled to meet Trump at the White House on August 18, accompanied by European leaders including Germany’s chancellor, France’s president, and the UK prime minister. Europe aims to work with the U.S. to establish robust security mechanisms for Ukraine, ensuring post-war stability and deterring future Russian aggression.