Putin reportedly seeks a discussion with Trump, according to Zelensky's explanation
In a significant development, the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian War was the main topic of discussion during the August 15, 2025 meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump in Alaska [1][2]. Trump expressed his desire to end the conflict, suggesting afterward that the responsibility largely rests on Ukraine to cede territory to achieve peace.
However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was not present at the summit, and his involvement was limited to a planned call from Trump following the meeting. This exclusion of Ukraine from direct talks has been a point of contention, with Zelensky expressing frustration about being left out of negotiations [3].
Zelensky has emphasised that talks about Ukraine without Ukraine's involvement won't yield results [2]. He stated that Ukrainian issues should be discussed by all three leaders (Putin, Trump, and himself) [2]. In a surprising turn of events, Zelensky suggested that Putin might benefit from the meetings, gaining "photos" [2].
Despite his exclusion from the talks, Zelensky supports Trump's desire for a ceasefire and subsequent negotiations. He is eagerly awaiting the implementation of the U.S. sanctions, which he believes Putin is delaying [2]. Zelensky also insists on Europe's presence in any agreements, as he wants to know when Ukraine will join the EU [2].
In a further development, Zelensky mentioned that he will be part of a conversation with all of Europe and the U.S. the following day [2]. He also suggested a trilateral meeting, believing it will yield results [2]. However, he clarified that he cannot speak about another state or make decisions regarding it [2].
The summit ended without a ceasefire agreement or major deal announced, and while discussions were described as constructive, the absence of Ukraine from the table and Trump signaling a willingness to press Ukraine to negotiate territory has raised serious concerns [1][3][4].
This news was reported by Interfax-Ukraine.
References: [1] https://www.reuters.com/world/us/trump-putin-talk-about-ukraine-syria-iran-and-north-korea-2021-06-16/ [2] https://www.interfax.com.ua/news/general/773384.html [3] https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-06-16/trump-says-ukraine-would-have-to-give-up-crimea-to-end-war [4] https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/trump-ukraine-crimea-putin-b1816791.html
- The topic of war-and-conflicts, specifically the Russo-Ukrainian War, was a major focus during policy-and-legislation discussions between Presidents Putin, Trump, and Zelensky, with Zelensky emphasizing that exclusion from direct talks could hinder resolution.
- In the realm of politics and general news, Zelensky's suggestions for a trilateral meeting with Putin and Trump, as well as his eagerness for Europe's involvement in any agreements, indicate his desire to ensure Ukraine's interests are addressed in resolving the Russo-Ukrainian conflict.
