Alaska: US President Donald Trump announced on Friday that he would not engage in negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin on behalf of Ukraine during their meeting at the Alaska summit. Trump clarified that the purpose of the summit was not to mediate on Ukraine's behalf but rather to encourage direct talks between the Russian and Ukrainian leaders.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Trump, speaking aboard the presidential plane en route to Alaska, emphasized his intent to bring both Russian and Ukrainian leaders to the negotiation table. When questioned about the possibility of discussing territorial swaps during the summit, Trump confirmed that the topic would be addressed but stressed that any decisions would rest with Ukraine.
Regarding the ongoing Russian military operations in Ukraine, Trump remarked that Putin's actions could be a strategy to facilitate a deal. He assured that this issue would be raised during his meeting with Putin in Alaska. Trump also reiterated his previous warning of imposing economic sanctions on Russia should Moscow refuse to agree to a ceasefire with Ukraine.
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine began in February 2014 when Russian forces, led by tanks, entered Ukraine, facing strong resistance from Ukrainian troops. Despite the resistance, Russia managed to capture some territories with predominantly Russian-speaking populations.