Ukraine Braces for Outcomes of Putin-Trump Alaska Negotiations

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has declared that “the time has come to end the war,” stressing that the stakes for Ukraine are “truly high” as the U.S.-Russia summit in Alaska approaches. His remarks followed a meeting of Ukraine’s military command, reported TSN. Zelensky said the most important outcome would be if the summit opens the possibility of “a real path to an honest peace” and a meaningful three-way discussion involving Ukraine, the United States, and Russia. Ukraine Excluded from Direct Participation The Ukrainian leader will not be present in Alaska. U.S. President Donald Trump has promised to call Zelensky after his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump stated that if the talks “go well,” he would like to hold a three-way summit with Zelensky. However, he warned that if he “doesn’t get the answers he wants,” there will be no second meeting. Tense Mood in Kyiv According to The Financial Times, Zelensky and his inner circle are experiencing “tension” over the Alaska talks, concerned about Ukraine’s inability to directly influence decisions that could determine the country’s fate. Sources cited by Axios said Ukrainian officials are preparing for any outcome — from a sudden invitation to Alaska to being excluded entirely from talks with Putin.