Trump vows not to be intimidated ahead of Putin summit
observerbd.com -- Friday, August 15, 2025, 12:46:24 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: U.S.–Russia Relations, U.S. Elections & Voting Rights, Public Opinion & Polling
Putin flies to Alaska on Friday at the invitation of Trump in his first visit to a Western country since he ordered the 2022 invasion of Ukraine that has killed tens of thousands of people.
As Russia made gains on the battlefield, the Kremlin said the two presidents planned to meet one-on-one, heightening fears of European leaders that Putin will cajole Trump into a settlement imposed on Kyiv.
Trump insisted to reporters at the White House: "I am president, and he's not going to mess around with me."
"I'll know within the first two minutes, three minutes, four minutes or five minutes... whether or not we're going to have a good meeting or a bad meeting," Trump said.
"And if it's a bad meeting, it'll end very quickly, and if it's a good meeting, we're going to end up getting peace in the pretty near future," said Trump, who gave the summit a one in four chance of failure.
Trump has voiced admiration for Putin in the past and faced wide criticism after a 2018 summit in Helsinki where he appeared to accept the Russian's denials of US intelligence on Moscow's meddling in US elections.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was not invited to the Alaska summit, which he has denounced as a reward to Putin, and has refused Trump's calls to surrender territory.
Trump promised not to finalize any deal with Putin alone and said he hoped to hold a three-way summit with Zelensky, possibly immediately afterwards in Alaska.
"The second meeting is going to be very, very important, because that's going to be a meeting where they make a deal. And I don't want to use the word 'divvy' things up. But you know, to a certain extent, it's not a bad term," Trump told Fox News Radio.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters any future deal needed also to ensure "security guarantees" for Ukraine.
But Trump has previously backed Russia's stance in ruling out NATO membership for Ukraine.
But his calls to Putin -- and intense pressure on Zelensky to accept concessions -- have failed to move the Russian leader and Trump has warned of "very severe consequences" if Putin keeps snubbing his overtures.
The talks are set to begin at 11:30 am (1930 GMT) Friday at the Elmendorf Air Force Base, a major US military installation in Alaska that has been crucial in monitoring Russia.
Zelensky met in London with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who vowed solidarity, a day after receiving support in Berlin.
Russia has made major gains on the ground ahead of the summit.
Ukraine on Thursday issued a mandatory evacuation of families with children from the eastern town of Druzhkivka and four nearby villages near an area where Russia made a swift breakthrough.
Russia said Thursday it had returned 84 prisoners to Ukraine in exchange for an equal number of Russian POWs.
The war has proved divisive in the United States, with a Pew Research Center poll finding that 59 percent of Americans lacked confidence in Trump's wisdom on the issue.
Anchorage, nestled under mountains, bore few indications it was the center of global attention except for signs denouncing Putin put up on downtown streets, where people gave mixed opinions of the summit.
"I think it's a travesty to invite a war criminal like Putin to the United States. My primary concern is that he's going to negotiate away everything and it's not going to be possible to have a peaceful solution," said Jay Ahuja, 62, a retiree from North Carolina.
But Kimberly Brown, a 63-year-old retiree from Ohio, said Alaska was a "perfect place" for the summit.
Sign Our PetitionThe upcoming summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in Alaska represents not only a pivotal moment in contemporary geopolitics but also highlights the deep historical and social currents that shape international relations today. As Putin arrives in the U.S. for this meeting—his first visit to a Western country since the onset of the 2022 invasion of Ukraine—it is crucial to understand the historical context of U.S.-Russia relations and the implications of this summit for Ukraine, European stability, and global peace.
Historically, the relationship between the U.S. and Russia has been fraught with tension, particularly since the end of the Cold War. The expansion of NATO into Eastern Europe has been perceived by Russia as a direct threat to its sphere of influence, fueling nationalist sentiments and aggressive policies. Trump's presidency has been marked by a controversial approach to Russia, often characterized by admiration for Putin, which raises questions about the U.S. commitment to democratic values and international law. This summit, therefore, is not merely a diplomatic event; it is a continuation of a pattern where U.S. leadership appears to capitulate to authoritarian regimes at the expense of democratic allies like Ukraine.
The exclusion of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky from the summit is particularly alarming. Zelensky’s strong stance against territorial concessions highlights the ongoing struggle for sovereignty faced by Ukraine, a nation that has endured tremendous suffering due to Russian aggression. The absence of Ukraine from this critical dialogue not only undermines its agency in the peace process but also sets a dangerous precedent where the voices of the most affected parties are marginalized in favor of backroom negotiations. Historically, this kind of sidelining has led to outcomes that favor powerful nations while disregarding the rights and needs of smaller states, perpetuating cycles of conflict and injustice.
The political implications of Trump’s statements surrounding the summit further complicate matters. His insistence on the possibility of a “good meeting” with Putin and the casual remarks about “divvying” up territories reflect a troubling casualness with the fate of nations. The language used to describe potential agreements trivializes the profound human cost of war, including the displacement of families and the loss of countless lives. This perspective not only endangers the people of Ukraine but also undermines international norms that safeguard against territorial conquest by force.
Domestically, this summit has elicited a polarized response in the United States, reflecting broader divisions in American society regarding foreign policy and national security. A Pew Research poll indicates that a significant majority of Americans lack confidence in Trump’s judgment on these issues, pointing to a growing recognition of the complexities of international relations. This division underscores the necessity of a more robust public discourse around foreign policy, one that emphasizes accountability and the importance of multilateralism over unilateral, self-serving decisions. In an era where the ramifications of such diplomatic encounters can lead to widespread consequences, it is imperative that citizens engage critically with their leaders’ foreign policy decisions.
In conclusion, as the world watches the unfolding of the Trump-Putin summit, it is essential to contextualize this event within the broader struggles for democracy, sovereignty, and international cooperation. The historical legacies that shape U.S.-Russia relations should inform our understanding of current events, reminding us of the dire consequences that can arise when powerful leaders negotiate in isolation. The call for solidarity with Ukraine, the need for inclusive dialogue, and a commitment to upholding international norms are not just political necessities; they are moral imperatives in the pursuit of a just and peaceful world. As citizens, we must advocate for a foreign policy that respects the voices of those directly affected by conflict and prioritizes lasting peace over short-term political gains.
The recent announcement of an impending summit between former President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin raises significant concerns about the geopolitical ramifications of their meeting, particularly in the context of the ongoing war in Ukraine. This meeting is notable not only for its timing but also for the potential implications it carries for both the United States and the broader international community. The historical backdrop of U.S.-Russia relations, especially in light of Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, frames this summit as a critical juncture that demands scrutiny and proactive engagement from the American public.
Historically, the relationship between the United States and Russia has been fraught with tension and conflict, particularly during the Cold War. The legacy of this era continues to influence contemporary politics and international relations. Putin’s aggressive maneuvers in Ukraine demonstrate a blatant disregard for international norms and human rights, with the war resulting in catastrophic loss of life and displacement of millions. Trump's previous admiration for Putin, combined with his cavalier approach to foreign policy, raises alarm bells regarding the potential for a settlement that may sacrifice Ukrainian sovereignty in the name of expediency. As we reflect on this history, it becomes imperative to recognize the patterns of power dynamics that have often led to the marginalization of smaller nations in favor of larger geopolitical interests.
The absence of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky from the summit is particularly troubling. It not only undermines Ukraine’s agency in the negotiation process but also sends a dangerous message about the acceptability of sidelining nations in crucial discussions about their future. As Americans, we must advocate for a foreign policy that prioritizes the voices and rights of those directly affected by conflict. The idea that major powers can negotiate the fate of smaller countries without their input is a relic of colonialism that should have no place in 21st-century diplomacy. This summit could easily devolve into a transaction that disregards the lived experiences of Ukrainians, reducing their plight to mere bargaining chips in a larger geopolitical game.
In light of these realities, what can we, as engaged citizens, do to influence the outcome of this summit and support the people of Ukraine? First, we must amplify our voices through grassroots organizing and advocacy. Engaging with local representatives to express support for Ukraine, urging them to stand firmly against any concessions that undermine Ukrainian sovereignty, is crucial. Additionally, we can mobilize through social media campaigns and community initiatives that raise awareness about the realities of the war and the importance of supporting Ukraine—not just in words, but in actions that reinforce international solidarity against aggression.
Education is also a powerful tool for change. By fostering informed discussions about the implications of U.S.-Russia relations and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, we can counteract misinformation and build a more nuanced understanding of the situation. Community seminars, workshops, and public forums can serve as spaces for dialogue, inviting experts and activists to share insights and strategies for advocacy. By equipping ourselves and others with knowledge, we can better challenge the narratives that minimize the stakes of this summit and the suffering of the Ukrainian people.
Ultimately, the stakes of the Trump-Putin summit extend beyond the immediate political landscape; they strike at the heart of what international cooperation and justice should look like in our world today. It is our responsibility as citizens to hold our leaders accountable and to advocate for a foreign policy that prioritizes human rights, democracy, and the dignity of all nations. As we navigate this critical moment, let us remember that our collective will, informed by history and guided by compassion, can influence the course of events and ensure that the voices of those who are most affected are heard and respected.
In light of the recent developments surrounding the proposed summit between Trump and Putin, it's crucial to consider proactive steps that individuals can take to advocate for peace and support Ukraine. Here’s a detailed list of actionable ideas and specific steps to make your voice heard.
### 1. **Raise Awareness in Your Community** - **Host a Community Forum**: Organize discussions in your local community centers or online platforms to educate others about the implications of the summit and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. - **Example**: Use platforms like Meetup.com to create events and invite local speakers or experts on international relations.
### 2. **Engage with Elected Officials** - **Contact Your Representatives**: Write to your congressional representatives urging them to support Ukraine and oppose any agreements that compromise its sovereignty. - **Who to Write To**: - **House of Representatives**: Find your representative at [House.gov](https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative). - **Senate**: Find your senator at [Senate.gov](https://www.senate.gov/senators/senators-contact.htm).
- **Sample Email Template**: ``` Subject: Support for Ukraine and Opposition to Unilateral Agreements
Dear [Representative/Senator's Name],
I am writing to express my concern regarding the upcoming summit between President Trump and President Putin. It is vital that any discussions prioritize Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. I urge you to advocate for a strong stance in support of Ukraine and oppose any agreements that may undermine its independence.
Thank you for your attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Email] ```
### 3. **Support Advocacy Organizations** - **Donate or Volunteer**: Contribute to organizations that support Ukrainian sovereignty, human rights, and peace initiatives. - **Examples**: - **Ukrainian National Women's League of America**: [Visit their website](https://unwla.org/) - **International Crisis Group**: [Visit their website](https://www.crisisgroup.org/)
### 4. **Petitions** - **Start or Sign Petitions**: Use platforms like Change.org to start or support petitions calling for international support for Ukraine or against any deals that would undermine its territorial claims. - **Example Petition**: Search for existing petitions related to Ukraine or create one urging the U.S. government to stand firmly with Ukraine.
### 5. **Engage on Social Media** - **Spread Information**: Use platforms like Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook to share credible news articles and resources about the Ukraine conflict and the implications of the summit. - **Hashtags to Use**: #StandWithUkraine, #PeaceInUkraine, #NoMoreAppeasement.
### 6. **Participate in Peaceful Protests** - **Join Local Rallies**: Look for or organize peaceful protests in support of Ukraine and against any concessions made to Russia that may threaten Ukrainian sovereignty. - **Example**: Check platforms like Facebook Events for upcoming rallies in your area.
### 7. **Contact Administration Officials** - **Write to Key Officials**: Reach out to the Secretary of State and other relevant officials to express your views on U.S. foreign policy regarding Ukraine. - **Who to Write To**: - **Secretary of State Antony Blinken** - Email: blinken.a@state.gov (or use the contact form on [state.gov](https://www.state.gov/contact-us/)) - Mailing Address: U.S. Department of State, 2201 C St NW, Washington, DC 20520
- **Sample Email Template**: ``` Subject: Urgent: Support for Ukraine's Sovereignty
Dear Secretary Blinken,
As a concerned citizen, I urge you to ensure that the U.S. maintains a strong stance in support of Ukraine during the upcoming discussions with President Putin. It is crucial that we uphold international law and support Ukraine's right to self-determination.
Thank you for your commitment to this vital issue.
Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Email] ```
### 8. **Educate Yourself and Others** - **Stay Informed**: Follow reputable news sources and analysis on the situation in Ukraine and U.S.-Russia relations. - **Book Clubs or Study Groups**: Form groups to read and discuss books or articles about international relations, conflict resolution, and historical context regarding Ukraine.
By taking these actions, individuals can contribute to a larger movement advocating for peace, sovereignty, and justice in the face of conflict.