Putin and Trump Conclude Talks Without Ceasefire Agreement in Ukraine

U.S. President Donald Trump announced that discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Anchorage, Alaska, did not result in a ceasefire agreement regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Despite the lack of progress on a ceasefire, Trump expressed his commitment to facilitating a trilateral meeting that would include Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, aimed at furthering dialogue surrounding the conflict. Putin characterized the talks as “constructive and mutually respectful,” underscoring Russia’s desire for a long-term resolution. The differing perspectives on the outcome highlight the complexities that continue to challenge diplomatic efforts.

Sanctions Postponed

Trump announced he would postpone the implementation of new sanctions against Russia and its trading partners for “two to three weeks.” He stated, “Given what transpired today, I don’t believe there’s an immediate need to address it. Perhaps I will reconsider in two or three weeks, but for now, it’s not necessary.” He described the discussions as “very warm” and “productive.”

According to Trump, the two parties are “very close to a deal” to resolve the conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing that Putin not only supports the idea of peace but also “wants to see it happen.” The talks included discussions of a potential territorial exchange and preparations for a trilateral meeting with Ukrainian President Zelensky. Despite the absence of an immediate ceasefire agreement, Trump expressed optimism about the progress made during the discussions.

Details on Territorial Exchange Discussion

During an interview with Fox News on August 16, Trump revealed further details about the summit, noting that issues of a possible territorial exchange were discussed as part of the settlement in Ukraine. When a journalist suggested that Russia could gain “more land” while Ukraine might receive “non-NATO security measures,” Trump confirmed, “I think those are the things that we agreed on, and we basically agreed on a lot.” He stressed that further progress now depends on Ukrainian President Zelensky.

“President Zelenskyy should agree. This is a terrible war in which he has a lot to lose, and both sides are losing. I hope it can be ended; it would be a great achievement for the presidents,” he remarked, evaluating the negotiations with Putin as “warm” and “productive.”

Trump reiterated that the U.S. does not plan to impose new sanctions against Russia at this time, but this issue may be reconsidered in the coming weeks. He rated the summit as “10 out of 10,” also noting the risks posed by Russia’s powerful nuclear arsenal, emphasizing that its use “would mean the end of everything.”

Preparations for a Trilateral Meeting

Additionally, Trump mentioned that preparations are underway for a trilateral meeting with Zelensky, which he is ready to attend. According to Reuters, Trump presented Putin with a letter from his wife, Melania, dedicated to the plight of children in the war zone in Ukraine, although the contents of the letter were not disclosed.

Trump quoted Putin, who allegedly praised his efforts to restore the American economy: “Putin told me: ‘I have never seen anyone do so much so quickly.’ He said our country is hot as a cannon, and a year ago he thought it was dead.”

Putin also expressed criticism of the U.S. election system, stating that “fair elections with mail-in voting are impossible.”

Potential Upcoming Meeting

A trilateral meeting involving Russian President Vladimir Putin, U.S. President Donald Trump, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky could be organized as early as next week. This initiative was discussed during the Putin-Trump summit in Anchorage. While the talks did not yield an agreement on an immediate ceasefire, Trump emphasized the importance of direct dialogue between Moscow and Kyiv and expressed his willingness to act as a mediator.

Sources indicate that preparations for a possible meeting have begun, although the location and exact date remain undetermined.

At the time of this report, there was no official confirmation from Ukraine or Russia regarding their readiness for a trilateral meeting. The international community is closely monitoring developments, as the success of these talks could be a key step toward de-escalating the conflict.