Trump Refuses to Negotiate for Ukraine Ahead of Alaska Meeting with Putin
On August 15, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that he would not negotiate on behalf of Ukraine during his upcoming meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One en route to Anchorage, Trump emphasized that he is “not here to negotiate for Ukraine” and will allow Kiev to decide its own stance on territorial matters with Moscow, reports 24brussels.
Trump expressed optimism about the meeting, noting, “I’m here to get them at a table. I think they’ll make a proper decision.” He suggested that there could be an opportunity for the U.S. to provide Ukraine with security guarantees, albeit not through NATO, alongside support from European and other nations.
Characterizing Putin as “a smart guy,” Trump conveyed a positive outlook before engaging the Russian leader, mentioning a “good respect level” between the two sides and expressing confidence that “something’s going to come out of it.” He described the encounter as “high stakes” in a post on Truth Social.
In parallel, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky conveyed his hopes that the Alaska meeting could lead to trilateral discussions among Ukraine, the U.S., and Russia. “The key thing is that this meeting should open up a real path toward a just peace and a substantive discussion,” he stated. Zelensky emphasized the urgency of ending the war and highlighted the need for Russia to undertake necessary steps.
“We are counting on America. We are ready, as always, to work as productively as possible,” asserted Zelensky, affirming Ukraine’s willingness to engage in constructive dialogue.
As the stakes rise in international diplomacy, the upcoming discussions between Trump and Putin may take on unprecedented significance in shaping the future of Ukraine amid ongoing tensions with Russia.
