Why It Matters:
- The meeting marked the first face-to-face talks between the leaders since 2021 amid escalating tensions over Ukraine.
- Despite warm rhetoric, the lack of a ceasefire agreement signals continued volatility in Eastern Europe.
The Big Picture:
Meeting on Friday, both presidents emphasized the symbolic importance of the event in Alaska, a former Russian territory. Upon Putin's arrival, Trump ordered B-2 jet flights to make a power show-off.
State of play:
- Putin seeks sanctions relief while Trump aims to position himself as a dealmaker ahead of U.S. elections.
- No tangible progress reported on ending the war, despite Putin claiming "serious willingness" for resolution.
What They Are Saying:
Vladimir Putin: "Russia and America are neighboring countries. Meeting in Alaska was logical... talks were substantive and constructive."
"We have always considered Ukrainians a brotherly nation, are determined to resolve this conflict by addressing its root causes, and insist any solution must account for Russia's security concerns."
"Next time in Moscow." (responding to Trump's invitation)
Donald Trump: "While some issues remain unresolved, today we made significant progress."
"I'll call NATO and Ukraine leaders first - update them. Still a few differences, one BIG one! Didn’t get final deal yet, but good chance. Putin, like me, wants to stop thousands dying every week."
Go Deeper:
Trump Criticizes Putin's Actions in Ukraine, Labes him 'Absolutely Crazy'
M.Majdi - seyed mohammad kazemi
