On August 15, the world’s eyes will be on Alaska when U.S. President Donald Trump meets Russian President Vladimir Putin for a high-stakes summit. In the lead-up, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, European leaders, the European Union and NATO joined Trump in a video call to line up their playbook for a lasting ceasefire — and maybe even dream up a three-way meeting with the Ukrainian leader. 🤝🕊️
Summit on the Horizon
Trump warned that a successful Alaska talk could spark a follow-up summit with Zelenskyy, while promising 'very serious consequences' for Putin if he rejects a ceasefire plan. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent even hinted at beefed-up sanctions and urged Europe to join in. 🇺🇸🇪🇺
Five Key Principles
In Berlin, Zelenskyy shared the group’s five pillars: a ceasefire, rock-solid security guarantees (with U.S. backing), direct Ukrainian involvement in any peace talks, no veto power for Russia over Ukraine’s European and NATO path, and stricter sanctions if Moscow drags its feet. 📝
European Voices
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Europe wants the talks to succeed — but not at the cost of its own safety or Ukraine’s interests. French President Emmanuel Macron echoed that all discussions about Ukrainian territory must include Zelenskyy. And Ursula von der Leyen announced that Europe, the U.S. and NATO stand united for a fair and lasting peace. 🌍
Territorial Claims in Play
Zelenskyy made it clear that Ukraine’s sovereignty and the Donbas issue won’t budge, insisting any deal must respect Ukraine’s constitution and people. Russia, for its part, pointed to its own constitution as the bedrock for any territorial talks. The ball, as many have said, is now in Putin’s court. 🎾
With tensions high and hope for peace in the air, all eyes are on Alaska. Will this summit be the breakthrough the world needs? Stay tuned! 👀
Reference(s):
As Trump-Putin summit nears, U.S., Europe, Ukraine align on Russia
cgtn.com
