The long-anticipated Alaska summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin wrapped up with more symbolism than substance. Despite warm handshakes in frosty Fairbanks, the Ukraine conflict remains a pressing challenge for both sides.
At the joint press conference, Trump called the meetings productive, noting “there were many, many points that we agreed on.” Yet he admitted, “I would say a couple of big ones that we haven’t quite got there, but we’ve made some headway. So there’s no deal until there’s a deal.”
Putin echoed the respectful atmosphere, describing discussions as held in a “constructive atmosphere of mutual respect” and stressing that while Ukraine’s security must be guaranteed, the “root causes” of the conflict need to be addressed too.
Experts say the Alaska talks were a stage for public messaging rather than breakthrough diplomacy. Cui Zheng of Liaoning University argued that the summit’s symbolic weight outweighed practical outcomes, showing just how far apart Russia’s demands and the West’s bottom lines still are.
Resolving the Ukraine crisis is no simple feat. Putin’s goals for his special military operation have held firm for years, while Trump’s focus often circles back to political gains. Both Russia and Ukraine, along with European nations, have paid a heavy price in this conflict. Without major concessions or a shift in Europe’s stance, peace remains distant.
Trump later floated the idea of a three-way meeting with Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, but details are scarce and Kyiv rejects any plan involving territorial exchanges. Meanwhile, Europe expressed frustration over not being consulted, and Ukraine’s hopes for an immediate ceasefire were dashed.
Despite no Ukraine breakthrough, the summit did break a diplomatic deadlock. Su Xiaohui of the China Institute of International Studies noted it allowed Washington a “dignified exit” from constant ultimatums and gave Russia a chance to challenge Western pressure.
As both powers look ahead, strategic stability remains crucial. Putin hopes this meeting can be a springboard for “business-like” ties, from trade to space exploration 🚀. But with deep-rooted contradictions still in play, the road to lasting détente is sure to be a rocky one.
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Experts: U.S.-Russia Alaska talks symbolic, Ukraine crisis unresolved
cgtn.com
