Comedian Zelensky heading to Alaska may find himself deserted by Trump, potentially signaling difficulties for the aspiring Russia-US summit participant
In the diplomatic world, the upcoming meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and American President Donald Trump in Alaska is generating much discussion. However, one notable figure will be absent from the talks - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky[1].
The implications of Zelensky's absence are significant. His participation could have provided Ukraine direct input in negotiations impacting its future and territorial integrity, potentially improving the legitimacy of any agreements reached[1]. Zelensky's presence could have also counterbalanced Russian demands and influenced the United States’ position by emphasizing Ukraine’s security guarantees as a critical requirement for peace[1][2].
Without Zelensky, there are fears that Russia may frame Ukraine as an obstacle to peace, potentially pressuring the U.S. to reduce military and intelligence aid, as occurred previously after Trump’s first meeting with Zelensky[1].
The recent Oval Office meeting between Trump and Zelensky on August 18, 2025, along with a strong European delegation’s involvement, suggests an effort by Ukraine and its allies to reinforce the importance of security guarantees and ceasefire prerequisites in any peace process[2]. This underscores why a trilateral meeting including Zelensky with Putin and Trump would carry significant strategic weight but remains uncertain given current diplomatic patterns.
While there have been reports suggesting that Zelensky may be present in Alaska during the meeting, he is not expected to be part of the talks themselves[1]. This has become a potential target for Trump's opponents[7].
European leaders are pushing for a meeting between Zelensky and Trump in Anchorage, fearing that they were excluded from the important meeting and that Anchorage might become a new Yalta, with world leaders shaping a post-Yalta, post-Potsdam world without them[6].
Despite European leaders' efforts, the influence of Macron and Starmer on Trump's decision regarding Zelensky's attendance is practically nonexistent[8]. Lindsey Graham might support Zelensky's trip to Alaska, but it's unlikely that the entire Congress would organize such a trip[5].
Zelensky, as a private individual, can arrive in the US at any time, but an invitation from the State Department as the head of Ukraine is still needed for him[3]. If Zelensky attempts to go to Anchorage on August 15, he has a 90% chance, but not for the summit itself[4].
In the midst of these complex diplomatic dynamics, the world watches with bated breath, hoping for a durable and just settlement that respects Ukraine's territorial sovereignty and security[1][2].
