Trump and Putin Set Alaska Summit for Aug 15 as Allies Push to Include Ukraine
11 August 2025 – London: The White House and the Kremlin say President Donald Trump and President Vladimir Putin will meet in Alaska on Friday, 15 August, aiming to discuss a potential ceasefire and a broader settlement to Russia’s war in Ukraine. The planned summit has triggered intense reactions across Western capitals and Moscow, with allies insisting that “nothing about Ukraine [be decided] without Ukraine.”
What we know about the meeting
Trump announced the venue and date on his social platform, saying the “highly anticipated meeting” will take place in Alaska, as his team seeks a rapid pathway to a ceasefire. U.S. outlets report Trump believes a deal is close; the Kremlin has confirmed preparations and called the moment potentially “historic.”
(Reuters; ABC News; RT)
The choice of Alaska is seen as symbolically neutral yet logistically practical. European press notes unease that concessions could be discussed without Kyiv present; Washington says the format and participation are still being finalized.
(The Guardian (live))
Who attends — and when does Zelensky join?
Vice President JD Vance said the administration is working toward a three-way process but added that “only President Trump can decide when to bring Putin and Zelensky together.” Moscow continues to question the legitimacy of the Ukrainian president; European leaders insist Ukraine must be at the table.
(New York Post; POLITICO)
U.S. framing vs. Russian framing
- Washington’s message: Trump’s team says heavy pressure on Moscow plus U.S. leverage could force movement toward a ceasefire. NATO chief Mark Rutte said Trump will be “testing Putin” at the Alaska meeting.
(CBS News) - Moscow’s message: Kremlin aides describe the summit as a diplomatic breakthrough and emphasize careful preparation. RT highlighted comments from senior negotiators saying the meeting could be “historic,” while earlier briefings cautioned timing would depend on groundwork.
(RT; RT)
The sticking points
Reports suggest Russia wants international recognition of control over occupied territories; Ukraine and most Western allies reject any settlement that rewards territorial conquest. Some U.S. and European outlets say Trump has floated concepts involving territorial swaps or phased arrangements, ideas likely to face fierce resistance in Kyiv.
(Reuters; The Atlantic; Al Jazeera)
Allies’ concerns and what success looks like
From Paris to Warsaw to London, leaders have warned against any deal struck over Ukraine’s head. A common refrain is: no changes to borders by force, and no ceasefire that locks in occupation. Still, European officials say if Alaska yields a verifiable ceasefire framework with a pathway for Kyiv’s participation and security guarantees, it could be a starting point rather than an end state.
(The Guardian (live); POLITICO)
Key quotes
“The highly anticipated meeting … will take place next Friday, August 15, 2025, in the Great State of Alaska.” — President Trump (Truth Social post)
(Reported by ABC News)
“On Friday, it is important to see how serious Putin is, and the only one who can do that is President Trump.” — NATO Secretary‑General Mark Rutte
(CBS News)
“The meeting has the potential to be historic.” — Senior Russian negotiator quoted by RT
(RT)
What to watch next
- Whether President Zelensky is invited to join either in Alaska or in a follow‑on session.
- Any U.S. outline of sanctions relief vs. compliance and verification if a ceasefire is agreed.
- Kremlin signals on territorial demands and whether Russia accepts international monitoring.
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