Trump Hails ‘Great Progress’ with Putin, Plans Talks with European Leaders and Zelenskyy

Trump called his high-profile meeting with Putin in Alaska “extremely productive,” claiming both sides made “great progress” on important problems like the Ukraine crisis. While Trump stressed that no deal has been reached, he pledged to advise European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy soon on the talks.

The two presidents met for over two hours at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Alaska during the Ukraine war, which dominates global news. Putin called the negotiations a “understanding,” but Trump said “there’s no deal until there’s a deal,” indicating that more work is needed before a breakthrough.

Warm Optics, No Deal Meeting

Meeting atmosphere was notable despite the lack of a formal agreement. Trump gave Putin a red-carpet reception and rode in “The Beast,” the presidential vehicle. Putin smiled heartily as the two leaders traveled to the meeting site, a rare display of goodwill between the U.S. and Russian leaders.

Putin ignored ground reporters’ inquiries regarding civilian casualties in Ukraine. Trump was more diplomatic, highlighting progress while managing expectations. He remarked, “We had an extremely productive meeting, and many points were agreed to.” “Some remain unresolved. One is important, but I think we can reach it.”

Ukraine and Europe Waiting

Ukrainian and European leaders skipped the meetings. Trump said he will shortly brief Zelenskyy and key European officials on the talks. They’re on the sidelines for now.

Zelenskyy offered cautious hope but noted the war’s enduring toll in a video message after the session. He said Ukraine is ready to work toward peace, but Moscow hasn’t shown a genuine desire to end the conflict. He stated, “Everyone wants an honest end to the war.” “Ukraine is ready to act productively, but Russia is sending mixed signals.”

Trump Is Optimistic Yet Cautious

Trump elevated and lowered public expectations before the meeting. He once said he could end the conflict in “24 hours,” but subsequently clarified that was a joke. He also threatened Russia with “very severe consequences” if it failed to cease the war.

The Alaska summit gave Trump his best chance to test those assertions with Putin. He left without a settlement but expressed confidence that progress had been made. Trump repeated, “Some great progress was made,” implying additional negotiations could resolve the issue.

A Summit Without Answers

Despite the summit, the Ukraine war, Europe’s largest since World War II, continues in its fourth year. While Trump and Putin’s meeting seemed constructive, the lack of a settlement left world uncertainty, analysts say.

Trump’s conversations with Zelenskyy and European leaders determine what happens next. The Alaska conference was a rare moment of personal diplomacy between two great leaders during a horrific war that has yet to end.

Sources

• Associated Press (AP) – Coverage of Trump-Putin Alaska summit

• Reuters – Updates on Ukraine war and diplomatic talks

• BBC News – Statements from Zelenskyy and European leaders