Putin-Trump summit: What each side wants | Fox 11 Tri Cities Fox 41 Yakima
fox41yakima.com -- Friday, August 15, 2025, 12:36:32 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: U.S.–Russia Relations, Foreign Policy & International Relations, U.S.–NATO Relations
The US and Russian presidents Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin are to meet at a US air base in Alaska on Friday for talks on the Ukraine war.
Expectations are high for the first summit between sitting US and Russian presidents in more than four years, but Moscow and Kyiv remain far apart in their visions on how to end the conflict.
It will be Putin's first trip to a Western country since launching his invasion in February 2022, as well as his first US visit in 10 years.
Here is a look at what each side hopes to achieve from the talks:
- Russia -
For Putin, who has faced years of isolation from the West since the invasion, the summit is an opportunity to press Russia's hardline demands for ending the conflict.
In a draft peace plan published in June, Russia called on Ukraine to withdraw its forces from the Kherson, Lugansk, Zaporizhzhia and Donetsk regions that Moscow claimed to annex in 2022. Ukraine has rejected the idea.
Russia has also called on Ukraine to halt its military mobilisation, abandon its NATO ambitions, and for Western countries to immediately stop weapon supplies -- something critics say amounts to capitulation.
In addition to territory, Russia wants Ukraine to ensure the "rights and freedoms" of the Russian-speaking population and to prohibit what it calls the "glorification of Nazism".
It also wants Western sanctions lifted.
Ukraine says Russia's allegations of Nazism are absurd and that it already guarantees rights to Russian speakers.
- Ukraine -
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is not scheduled to take part in the summit, but has said there can be no peace deal without its involvement. He has called the meeting a "personal victory" for Putin.
Ukraine has called for an unconditional ceasefire on land, sea and sky as a prerequisite to peace talks.
It wants both sides to release all prisoners of war and demanded the return of Ukrainian children it says Russia illegally kidnapped.
Ukraine says Russia has forcibly transferred thousands of Ukrainian children into areas under its control since the war began, often adopting them into Russian families and assigning them Russian citizenship.
Russia rejects the kidnapping allegations but acknowledges that thousands of children are on its territory.
Ukraine says any deal must include security guarantees to prevent Russia from attacking again, and that there should be no restrictions on the number of troops it can deploy on its territory.
It says sanctions on Russia can only be lifted gradually and that there should be a way of reimposing them if needed.
- United States -
Trump promised he would end the war within "24 hours" after taking office in January. But eight months on, and even after repeated calls with Putin and several visits to Russia by US envoy Steve Witkoff, he has failed to extract any major concessions from the Kremlin.
The summit is his first opportunity to broker a deal in person.
The US president, author of the book "Trump: The Art of the Deal" said on Wednesday that Russia would face "very severe consequences" if it did not halt its offensive.
The US leader initially said there would be some "land swapping going on" at the talks, but appeared to walk back after speaking with European leaders on Wednesday.
Trump has said he would "like to see a ceasefire very, very quickly".
But the White House has played down expectations of a breakthrough, describing it as a "listening exercise" for the former reality TV star.
"If the first one goes okay, we'll have a quick second one," Trump said, hinting Zelensky could take part in a subsequent summit.
- Europe -
Despite providing military support for Ukraine and hosting millions of Ukrainian refugees, European leaders have been sidelined from the peace talks that may affect the region's security architecture in the future.
European representatives were neither invited to the past three meetings between Russian and Ukrainian officials in Istanbul, nor to the Russia-US talks in Riyadh in February.
In a statement last week, the leaders of Britain, France, Italy, Germany, Poland, Finland and the EU Commission warned there could be no meaningful peace without Ukraine's participation.
"Territorial questions concerning Ukraine can be, and will be, negotiated only by the Ukrainian president," French President Emmanuel Macron said after speaking with Trump on Wednesday.
Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer have signalled they are willing to deploy peacekeepers in Ukraine once the fighting ends, an idea Russia has vehemently rejected.
bur-cad/asy/tw/tc
FOX41 Yakima©FOX11 TriCities©
Sign Our PetitionThe upcoming summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in Alaska has the potential to reshape the geopolitical landscape, particularly in relation to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This meeting marks a significant moment not only because it is the first summit between sitting U.S. and Russian presidents in over four years, but also as it occurs against a backdrop of rising tensions and deep-seated historical grievances. The stakes are undeniably high for both nations as well as for Ukraine, which finds itself at the epicenter of this fraught geopolitical chess game.
Historically, the relationship between the U.S. and Russia has oscillated between cooperation and confrontation, largely influenced by their respective ideological frameworks and global ambitions. The dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 marked the beginning of a new era, where Russia sought to integrate into the Western-led global order. However, the expansion of NATO and the West's perceived encroachment into former Soviet territories have fueled a sense of betrayal in Moscow. This historical context is essential for understanding the current conflict in Ukraine, which has its roots in both national identity and international power dynamics. Ukraine's struggle is not just about territorial integrity; it involves complex issues of sovereignty, cultural identity, and the broader implications of foreign influence.
From the Russian perspective, the summit presents an opportunity to solidify its demands for a resolution that acknowledges its territorial claims in eastern Ukraine, which it annexed in 2022. The insistence on Ukraine halting its military mobilization and abandoning NATO ambitions reflects Russia's desire to reclaim a sphere of influence that it perceives as under threat from Western encroachment. However, these demands come at a significant cost to Ukraine's autonomy and self-determination. The notion that Ukraine should capitulate to Russian demands raises critical questions about the nature of sovereignty in international relations. For many observers, Russia's insistence on the "rights and freedoms" of Russian-speaking populations is a thinly veiled justification for its aggressive policies, reminiscent of historical narratives used by empires to legitimize expansionist actions.
On the other hand, Ukraine's position, articulated by President Volodymyr Zelensky, emphasizes the need for an unconditional ceasefire and the return of Ukrainian children illegally taken by Russia. These humanitarian concerns are paramount in any potential negotiation, highlighting the severe human cost of the conflict. The forced transfer of Ukrainian children, often adopted into Russian families, is emblematic of the broader strategy that aims to erase Ukrainian identity. Ukraine's insistence on security guarantees and the gradual lifting of sanctions reflects a recognition that trust has been irrevocably broken. Such measures underscore the necessity for a robust international framework that prioritizes human rights and the principles of international law over political expediency.
In this context, the role of the United States cannot be overlooked. Trump's previous promises to swiftly end the war in Ukraine underscore the disconnect between political rhetoric and the complexities of international diplomacy. While the summit presents an opportunity for Trump to assert U.S. influence and broker a deal, it also illustrates the challenges inherent in negotiating peace when one party (Russia) seeks to leverage its military might for political concessions. The criticism of Trump's prior engagements with Russia indicates a broader concern among U.S. allies about the potential for appeasement, which could set a dangerous precedent for authoritarian regimes worldwide. The U.S. must navigate these negotiations with a clear commitment to uphold democratic values and human rights, rather than succumbing to the allure of short-term political gains.
As the summit approaches, the implications for social struggles within both Ukraine and Russia become increasingly apparent. The conflict has galvanized a sense of national identity among Ukrainians, who are fighting not only for their territorial integrity but for their cultural and political sovereignty. Conversely, for the Russian populace, the Kremlin's narrative around the conflict is a tool of state propaganda, aimed at fostering nationalistic sentiments while suppressing dissent. Engaging in discussions about this summit provides an opportunity to critically evaluate the role of international diplomacy, the significance of historical context, and the moral imperatives that should guide actions on both sides. Ultimately, the outcome of this summit will not only determine the future of Ukraine but also set a precedent for how nations navigate the complexities of power, identity, and justice on the global stage.
The upcoming summit between Presidents Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin marks a pivotal moment in international relations, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This meeting is not only significant for the two leaders but also for the broader geopolitical landscape that has been shaped by years of animosity, sanctions, and military actions. The historical backdrop is crucial for understanding the stakes involved. Since the annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the subsequent war in Eastern Ukraine, relations between Russia and the West have deteriorated sharply. The implications of this summit extend beyond mere diplomatic niceties; they touch upon issues of sovereignty, human rights, and the future of international order.
From the Russian perspective, President Putin's demands reflect a strategy of reasserting Russia's influence in the region while attempting to navigate the consequences of Western sanctions that have isolated the nation economically and politically. The draft peace plan proposed by Russia, which includes calls for Ukraine to cede territory and limit its military ambitions, underscores a desire to not only legitimize its claims but also to shift the narrative in its favor. The insistence on halting military supplies from the West to Ukraine reveals a fundamental understanding of the power dynamics at play, where the flow of arms directly impacts the conflict's trajectory. This position must be viewed critically, as it effectively seeks to impose conditions that align with Russia's imperial ambitions, rather than fostering a genuine pathway to peace and reconciliation.
Conversely, Ukraine's stance, articulated by President Volodymyr Zelensky, highlights the struggle for national sovereignty and territorial integrity. The rejection of any peace deal that excludes its participation is emblematic of a broader narrative that must be acknowledged: peace cannot be brokered on the backs of the oppressed. The Ukrainian demand for an unconditional ceasefire, the return of prisoners of war, and the protection of its citizens, particularly in light of the systematic deportation of Ukrainian children, underscores the moral imperatives that must guide any negotiations. It is crucial for Americans and the international community to recognize that the resolution of this conflict is not merely a diplomatic exercise but a matter of upholding human rights and international law.
As citizens in the United States, our role in this geopolitical landscape is multifaceted. First and foremost, we can advocate for a foreign policy that prioritizes human rights and democratic values over realpolitik. This necessitates a commitment to scrutinizing the narratives presented by both the U.S. government and international actors, encouraging transparency and accountability in how foreign policy decisions are made. Furthermore, grassroots movements can foster awareness about the ongoing plight of the Ukrainian people and the broader implications of Russian aggression. By engaging with local representatives and demanding a robust response to violations of sovereignty and human rights, we can help shape a more just foreign policy that supports international law.
Educational initiatives also play a vital role in this discourse. By fostering discussions around the historical contexts of the Ukraine-Russia conflict, we can cultivate a more informed citizenry equipped to engage in advocacy. Workshops, community forums, and online platforms can be utilized to share diverse perspectives and counter misinformation. Understanding the complexities of this conflict, including the historical grievances and cultural narratives at play, is essential for generating meaningful discourse that transcends partisan divides and fosters solidarity with those affected by war.
In conclusion, while the upcoming summit between Trump and Putin may seem like a high-stakes diplomatic encounter, it is imperative that we, as engaged citizens, grasp the moral dimensions of this conflict. By advocating for a foreign policy that prioritizes peace, justice, and human rights, we can contribute to a global environment that not only seeks to resolve current conflicts but also prevents future ones. Educational efforts and grassroots advocacy can empower us to hold our leaders accountable and ensure that the voices of those most affected, particularly in Ukraine, are not drowned out in the cacophony of geopolitical maneuvering. As we approach this critical juncture, let us be reminded that the path to peace is paved not just with agreements, but with a steadfast commitment to justice and the protection of human dignity.
The summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin presents a critical moment in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and offers an opportunity for individuals to engage in advocacy and activism. Here are several ideas on what we can personally do about this situation, along with specific actions and resources to consider.
### Personal Actions to Take
1. **Educate Yourself and Others:** - Stay informed about the developments surrounding the Ukraine conflict, the stakes involved, and the implications of any agreements made during the summit. - Share information through social media, community meetings, or discussion groups to raise awareness about the conflict and the need for a peaceful resolution.
2. **Contact Elected Officials:** - Write to your congressional representatives urging them to support Ukraine’s demands for peace and human rights. - **Example**: Contact your House Representative and Senators. You can find their contact information at [congress.gov](https://www.congress.gov/). - **Example names**: - Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) - Representative Adam Schiff (D-CA) - **Email**: Use the contact form on their official websites. - **USPS Address**: - Senator Warren: 2400 JFK Federal Building, 15 New Sudbury Street, Boston, MA 02203 - Rep. Schiff: 2112 Rayburn H.O.B., Washington, D.C. 20515
3. **Support Human Rights Organizations:** - Donate to or volunteer with organizations focused on human rights and humanitarian assistance in Ukraine, such as: - **UNICEF**: [unicef.org](https://www.unicef.org/) - **Doctors Without Borders**: [doctorswithoutborders.org](https://www.doctorswithoutborders.org/) - Participate in local fundraising events that support these organizations.
4. **Sign and Share Petitions:** - Find and sign petitions that call for specific actions, such as supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty, ensuring the return of displaced children, or demanding accountability for war crimes. - **Example**: - **Petition on Change.org**: “Demand action to protect Ukrainian children” - Share these petitions on social media platforms to raise awareness.
5. **Attend Local Rallies or Protests:** - Join or organize local events that advocate for peace in Ukraine, support for Ukrainian refugees, or denounce aggression from Russia. - Use platforms like Facebook Events or Meetup to find or create gatherings.
6. **Write Opinion Pieces or Letters to the Editor:** - Submit letters to local newspapers or online publications expressing your views on the importance of supporting Ukraine and the need for diplomatic solutions. - Provide clear arguments and factual information about the situation.
7. **Engage with Community Leaders:** - Reach out to local representatives, organizations, or community leaders to discuss ways to support peace efforts regarding the Ukraine situation. - Advocate for local resolutions supporting Ukraine's sovereignty.
8. **Leverage Social Media:** - Use platforms like Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook to create awareness campaigns about the war in Ukraine, the humanitarian crisis, and the significance of international solidarity. - Use hashtags such as #StandWithUkraine, #PeaceForUkraine, or #NoWar.
### What to Say
When contacting officials or participating in advocacy efforts, consider using the following talking points:
- Emphasize the importance of upholding Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. - Advocate for immediate humanitarian assistance for those affected by the conflict, including displaced families and children. - Urge for a ceasefire and a diplomatic resolution that includes Ukrainian representatives in all discussions. - Highlight the need for accountability regarding the alleged forced deportation of children and other war crimes. - Call for continued sanctions on Russia until it complies with international law and respects human rights.
By taking these actions, we can collectively contribute to a more informed public discourse and advocate for positive change in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.