Trump Doesn't Anticipate any Agreement with Putin
In a notable development, US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are set to meet in Alaska to discuss a potential peace solution to the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. The meeting, however, does not include Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, though there's a possibility he might be invited later.
The discussions come amidst Russia's insistence on full control of the Donetsk Oblast, a territorial demand that could be a form of territorial concession or swap. This proposal, if agreed upon, would significantly impact Ukraine's sovereignty. Putin has consistently advocated for this claim, linking it to addressing the so-called "root causes" of the war, which include opposition to NATO's eastward expansion and issues related to Ukraine's treatment of Russian speakers.
Zelensky, on the other hand, implicitly rejects any deal involving territorial exchange, stating Ukraine's commitment to defending its independence. EU Foreign Minister Kaja Kallas urges against discussing concessions until Russia agrees to a complete and unconditional ceasefire.
The EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will participate in the consultations of European government leaders with Trump, organized by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. The German government views this meeting as a potentially significant moment for the further course of the Ukraine war. Merz is trying to find a common ground between Europeans and US President Donald Trump.
French President Emmanuel Macron is also part of the talks, making it a joint initiative of Macron, Merz, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. A video conference is scheduled for Wednesday, where European heads of state, Zelenskyy, and Trump will discuss putting pressure on Russia and possible peace negotiations.
Trump has suggested a potential meeting between Zelensky and Putin, or a meeting involving all three. He has also proposed a territorial exchange in Ukraine, intending to regain territory for Ukraine. However, Trump has faced criticism from Zelensky, who sees the meeting as a new attempt by Moscow to deceive.
The proposed Alaska meeting has also sparked discussions about a possible land swap between Ukraine and Russia. Trump announced that he will inform Zelenskyy and European heads of state and government after the Alaska summit about his conversation with Putin.
NATO Secretary-General Rutte acknowledges that Russia currently controls part of Ukrainian territory. Despite the ongoing negotiations, Trump has stated that he will not sign any agreement on the Ukraine conflict with Putin.
In response to the ongoing conflict, the EU has announced a new sanctions package against Russia, marking the 19th package of punitive measures. The situation remains complex and tense, with the future of Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty hanging in the balance.
[1] Source: The Washington Post
[2] Source: The New York Times
[3] Source: BBC News
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