Athira Sethu
Kochi, 16 August 2025
The highly anticipated meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska was supposed to be a move toward peace in Ukraine. But following almost three hours of discussion, there was no truce or solid agreement—just ambivalent words and more doubts.
Putin Welcome Back on Global Stage
Putin arrived in Alaska to a red-carpet welcome from Trump, a big moment for the Russian leader who has been isolated by most Western nations since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The warm handshake and smiles between the two men marked Putin’s return to the global stage. Cameras even caught him laughing while riding in Trump’s limousine, instead of using his own car. For Moscow, being invited to the US was a victory in itself.
Blunt Questions from Journalists
Contrary to the situation in Russia, where the media is regulated very tightly, Putin was grilled by reporters in Alaska. One hurled, “Will you put an end to killing civilians?” He shrugged it off. Another queried if he would sit down with Ukraine’s President Zelensky. Putin sneered but did not respond.
Talks End Without a Deal
After the negotiations concluded, the two leaders refrained from answering questions from journalists. Putin addressed them first, commending the “dignified atmosphere” before moving on to Alaska’s past life as Russian lands. Regarding Ukraine, he echoed old demands like acknowledging Russian authority over the occupied territories and Ukraine being neutral. These are unacceptable in Kyiv, and it was evident that no genuine peace agreement had been signed.
Trump’s Vague Statements
Trump didn’t specifically mention Ukraine when he spoke. He said that lots of people were dying every week and that “great progress” was made, but provided no specifics. He conceded that there was “no deal” but that there was still potential for further progress. No deals with Zelensky or concrete moves toward peace were announced.
Suggestions for Future Sessions
In spite of the failure to deliver results, the summit emphasized increased cooperation between the US and Russia. Photographs of smiling leaders shaking hands went viral worldwide. Putin cracked a joke in English at the end: “Next time in Moscow.” Trump laughed and said it could happen.
For the time being, the Alaska summit left the world with more questions than answers, particularly for Ukraine, which continues to fight with no hint of cessation.
