Trump-Putin Summit Ends Without Ukraine Deal.
Push for Peace Deal Over Ceasefire
US President Donald Trump stated that a peace deal is the preferred way to end the war in Ukraine, rather than a ceasefire, after discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders following his summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska.
Zelensky to Meet Trump
Ukrainian President Zelensky confirmed he will meet with Trump in Washington, DC, following a substantial conversation between the two leaders.
Security Guarantees
Discussions between Trump and European officials included the possibility of NATO-like security guarantees for Ukraine in the event of a peace deal, a move likely to face opposition from the Kremlin.
Trump and Putin's Meeting
Russian President Putin described his meeting with Trump as timely and useful, emphasizing discussions on resolving the Ukrainian crisis peacefully.
Body Language Analysis
Behavioral analyst Chris Ulrich noted Trump's body language at the summit with Putin, suggesting a display of dominance and rapport-building between the two leaders.
Ukraine's Concerns
Ukrainian officials expressed concerns over Trump's warm reception of Putin, contrasting it with previous interactions with Zelensky and highlighting potential implications for Ukraine.
Challenges for Security Guarantees
Former US Ambassador Mark Brzezinski highlighted challenges in providing security guarantees for Ukraine due to the complexities and grievances resulting from the conflict.
European Leaders' Call for Guarantees
European leaders, including British PM Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, supported the provision of security guarantees for Ukraine as part of a potential peace deal.
Putin's Language Skills
Putin's proficiency in English was noted, with the Kremlin confirming his ability to understand the language, though official negotiations are typically conducted through interpreters.
Focus on Peace Deal
Trump's shift towards pursuing a peace agreement, rather than a ceasefire, in Ukraine was met with mixed reactions, with Ukrainian officials expressing concerns and emphasizing the importance of a ceasefire.
Reaction in Ukraine
Reactions in Ukraine to the Trump-Putin summit varied, with concerns raised about potential outcomes for the country and the need for strong support from European allies.
Prospects for Trilateral Summit
Trump's suggestion of a trilateral summit involving Putin, Zelensky, and himself was met with skepticism from the Kremlin, indicating differing perspectives on the potential meeting.
Sanctions and Security
Zelensky emphasized the need for strengthened sanctions against Russia if a trilateral meeting does not occur, underscoring the importance of Ukraine's involvement in discussions about its future security.