Eric Ham: The Alaska summit is Trump's 'wobbly' moment
cp24.com -- Friday, August 15, 2025, 5:24:28 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: Foreign Policy & International Relations, U.S.–Russia Relations, Media Coverage & Press Relations
Eric Ham is based in Washington, D.C. and is a political analyst for CTV News. He's a bestselling author and former congressional staffer in the U.S. Congress and writes for CTVNews.ca.
In the lead-up to President Trump's historic Ukraine summit with Russian strongman Vladimir Putin, the world has witnessed Western leaders take on the unprecedented task of tutoring, cajoling, and imploring an American president not to sell out the interests of all of Europe in exchange for fool's gold when meeting with the wily former KGB operative.
Most recently, the two-term president had another TACO moment when his repeated threats came up empty. The purported sanctions deadline, no doubt a pressure tactic by the White House to force Moscow into a ceasefire deal with Kyiv, came and went; not with a bang, but with a whimper.
President Trump, who has shown a penchant for enacting punishing tariffs on allies and friends alike, once again shows the Russian dictator the kid gloves treatment. The former reality television star continues to portray the role of novice statesman on the world stage when navigating deeply intractable and complex geopolitics.
Now, as he stares down his face-to-face with Putin in Alaska today, many at home and abroad are increasingly concerned not only with the U.S. president's deep naivete towards the steely Putin, but the prospect of American might and prestige being deployed to advance the aims and ambitions of the Kremlin.
The Trump administration's U.S. envoy, Steve Witkoff, and his alarming lack of professionalism to forgo detailed notes outlining key takeaways from his initial meeting with Putin and his team not only caught many off guard in the immediate aftermath of their seminal meeting, but raised the consternation of NATO, EU members, and especially Ukraine.
An unclear readout of concessions and offers gave indication that Moscow was on a glide-path towards total Ukrainian annexation with the help and support of an unsophisticated Trump White House, clueless to its own ineptness.
Further cementing this notion were recent comments by the convicted felon himself proposing Ukrainian land swaps for peace. Though not just peace, a peace on Russia's terms.
Moreover, the meeting between the two world leaders comes at a pivotal moment in the four-year long war as Russian forces are closing in on additional battleground victories as more Ukrainian territory gets annexed along the way.
Meanwhile, the suffering deepens and the body count rises. Amid this bleak backdrop, President Trump's frustration with his own inability to reach a ceasefire and end the ongoing conflict -- something he boasted of achieving while on the campaign trail, no doubt -- underscores the depths of his desperation at finding any agreement to claim victory and walk away. Even at the expense of Ukraine and all of Europe.
A hastily agreed upon meeting at the behest of Putin, on American soil no less, continues to highlight the erratic nature of the president's willingness to so easily cave to the wiles and demands of Putin with nothing in return.
Now, the American electorate watches stupefied as German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is left with no choice but to arrange a pre-summit confab in hopes of educating and conveying the enormity of what such an event portends; not just for the West but for the entire globe.
The virtual gathering echoes the Margaret Thatcher/George HW Bush moment where the late U.K. leader infamously told the late commander-in-chief in the lead-up to war: "Remember George, this is not the time to go wobbly," as Bush mulled over what to do in response to Saddam Hussein's invasion of Kuwait in 1990.
Unwilling to wait for a meeting with President Trump and already vexed for being snubbed from the meeting, Ukrainian President Vlodomyr Zelensky has already shot back in the most forceful terms possible, indicating his country will not -- under any circumstances -- willingly cede sovereign territory in exchange for peace.
Jeremy Kinsman, former Canadian ambassador to Russia, cautioned that Trump is susceptible to manipulation by Putin.
In an interview with CTV News he said: "I fear that Putin is playing Trump again, just looking like he's talking to avoid further sanctions. It only works if Trump is tough on Russia." Kinsman goes on to say, "Trump is inviting the leader of Russia, who is under indictment from the International Criminal Court, (to the U.S.), and all NATO countries have said they would not have him in their country...So, Trump is giving something to Putin that he clearly wants. Putin is seeking a form of impunity for the invasion of Ukraine."
As a result of this repeated and inexplicable support for a reputed criminal, Europe has taken the unprecedented step of intervening in a U.S. president's foreign policy maneuvers in an effort to ward off seismic concessions that could place U.S. allies on the defensive as the Kremlin pursues its dogged quest of re-assembling the Soviet empire. National leaders rallying to the aid and support of Ukraine at such a crucial moment is a stark juxtaposition, compared to the current state of play within the United States.
America has ardently stood with many of those same partners as an able counterweight and opponent to fascism. Now, as President Trump aligns himself with strongmen and dictators, the growing image of one of the last century's most dominant vestiges of democracy is no longer the powerful adversary of tyranny.
Today, the once mighty red, white, and blue has been reduced to the role of servile and docile accomplice, undermining openness and freedom. A blunt reminder of the fragility of representative government. The symbolism of America's perennial antagonist meeting the nation's president on U.S. soil is clearly a fait accompli for Putin.
Under Trump's Make America Great Again moniker, oh, how the mighty have fallen.
Sign Our PetitionThe recent summit between President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska has sparked considerable concern among observers of international politics, particularly regarding its implications for Ukraine and the broader geopolitical landscape. As Trump faces scrutiny both domestically and internationally, it's important to place this moment within a historical context that underscores the fragility of democratic principles and territorial integrity. The meeting highlights not only the complexities of global diplomacy but also the stark realities of power dynamics that often favor authoritarian regimes over more vulnerable democracies.
Historically, the relationship between the United States and Russia has been fraught with tension, particularly since the Cold War. The post-Soviet era was marked by a push for democratization and integration into Western institutions, but recent events have revealed the depth of Russia's ambitions to reassert its influence. The annexation of Crimea in 2014 and ongoing military actions in Eastern Ukraine have sent shockwaves through Europe, where the specter of expansionist policies is palpable. In this context, Trump's apparent willingness to overlook or even accommodate Putin's aggressive maneuvers raises alarm bells, not just for Ukraine, but for the entire European alliance. This is reminiscent of past failures to stand firm against authoritarianism, underscoring the need for a robust and unified response from Western democracies.
The dynamics at play during this summit are emblematic of a broader trend in which leaders are often willing to compromise democratic values and human rights for perceived strategic gains. Trump's so-called "TACO moment" — a play on the idea of transactional politics — suggests a troubling willingness to trade away the sovereignty of nations in exchange for hollow diplomatic victories. This transactional approach is not new, but it represents a dangerous shift away from the principles of collective security and respect for international law. It echoes past moments in history where leaders have turned a blind eye to the encroachments of authoritarian regimes, prioritizing short-term gains over long-lasting peace and stability.
Moreover, the language used by Trump in discussing potential "land swaps" to achieve peace signals a troubling normalization of the idea that territorial integrity can be bartered away. Such concessions, especially when made without the consent of the affected populations, undermine both moral and legal frameworks that protect national sovereignty. This situation is exacerbated by Trump's apparent lack of understanding of the complexities involved in these discussions. Rather than standing firm against aggression, the U.S. administration's approach risks further emboldening Putin, who has demonstrated a willingness to exploit any signs of weakness. This dynamic not only threatens Ukraine but signals to authoritarian leaders worldwide that aggressive behavior may be rewarded rather than punished.
The implications of this summit extend beyond foreign policy; they resonate deeply within ongoing social struggles and movements for justice and equality. The willingness to capitulate to authoritarianism parallels struggles faced by marginalized communities globally, where power imbalances often lead to exploitation and abuse. The disregard for Ukraine's sovereignty can be seen as a reflection of a broader indifference to the plight of those seeking self-determination and justice. It is a stark reminder that the fight against oppression is one that transcends borders, and that the struggles of Ukrainians today resonate with those battling systemic injustices elsewhere.
In conclusion, the Alaska summit serves as a critical juncture in understanding the consequences of contemporary diplomacy and the geopolitical climate. As Trump engages with Putin, it is essential to recognize the historical patterns that inform these interactions and the potential ramifications for democracies worldwide. The need for a united front against authoritarianism is more pressing than ever, and the lessons learned from this meeting should fuel ongoing conversations about the importance of upholding democratic values and supporting the aspirations of those who seek justice and self-determination. The stakes are high, and the world must remain vigilant in advocating for a future that prioritizes human rights and the sanctity of national borders.
The article by Eric Ham highlights a critical moment in international relations, particularly concerning the United States' foreign policy approach toward Russia and Ukraine under the Trump administration. The meeting between President Trump and Vladimir Putin in Alaska serves as a focal point for examining the broader implications of U.S. leadership in a world increasingly defined by geopolitical tensions. Historically, the United States has played a significant role in European stability and security since the end of World War II, particularly through its leadership in NATO and its commitment to democratic values. However, the current trajectory raises serious questions about the U.S.'s willingness to uphold these commitments, especially when faced with authoritarian regimes.
The analysis of Trump's presidency reveals a pattern of behavior that often undermines established diplomatic norms. His administration's approach—characterized by impulsivity, a lack of strategic foresight, and an inclination to prioritize personal gain over collective security—threatens to erode the alliances that have been painstakingly built over decades. The "TACO moment" referenced in the article emphasizes Trump's seeming inability to navigate complex geopolitical landscapes, reflecting a broader trend in his presidency where ally relationships are strained while authoritarian leaders are treated with undue deference. This dissonance not only undermines U.S. credibility but also emboldens adversaries like Russia to pursue aggressive actions without facing consequences.
This situation is not merely a matter of diplomatic faux pas but carries serious implications for global security. The ongoing war in Ukraine is a poignant reminder of the stakes involved; as Russian forces advance and the humanitarian crisis deepens, the question arises: What can Americans do to reaffirm their commitment to democratic values and international solidarity? As citizens, we must engage actively in the political process, demanding accountability from our leaders regarding foreign policy decisions. This can take the form of advocating for stronger support for Ukraine, whether through humanitarian aid, military assistance, or diplomatic engagement aimed at curtailing Russian aggression. Grassroots movements and civic organizations can play a pivotal role in mobilizing public opinion and pressuring elected officials to adopt policies that prioritize human rights and international law over expedient deals.
Moreover, the educational aspect is crucial in fostering an informed citizenry that understands the complexities of international relations. Schools, universities, and community organizations should prioritize discussions on global citizenship, the importance of alliances, and the consequences of authoritarianism. By equipping individuals with knowledge about historical contexts and current events, we can cultivate a populace that is not only aware of the challenges we face but also empowered to advocate for effective solutions. Engaging with independent media, promoting critical thinking about political narratives, and participating in dialogues about foreign policy can help bridge the gap between government actions and public understanding.
Finally, it is essential to recognize that the stakes in Ukraine extend beyond its borders; they serve as a litmus test for global democratic governance. The response to this crisis can set precedents for how democratic nations confront authoritarianism in the future. As we reflect on the implications of the Trump-Putin summit, let us remain vigilant and proactive in our pursuit of justice, solidarity, and the promotion of democratic ideals. The call to action is clear: we must not only hold our leaders accountable but also empower ourselves and our communities to shape a world where diplomacy, respect for sovereignty, and human rights are paramount. In doing so, we can help ensure that the lessons of history inform our path forward, fostering a more just and stable international order.
to raise alarms about the implications for global democracy and security. As concerned citizens, we must recognize our role in influencing our leaders and shaping policies that prioritize human rights, international solidarity, and the preservation of democratic values.
Here’s a detailed list of ideas and actions we can take to address the unfolding situation related to U.S. foreign policy, particularly in relation to Ukraine and Russia:
### What Can We Personally Do About This?
1. **Educate Ourselves and Others**: Stay informed about the geopolitical landscape, the implications of U.S.-Russia relations, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Sharing information can help build a more informed community.
2. **Engage in Advocacy**: Use our voices to advocate for policies that support democracy and peace. This includes speaking out against any U.S. policies that could be seen as undermining Ukraine’s sovereignty.
3. **Support Human Rights Organizations**: Contribute to or volunteer with organizations that are actively working on the ground in Ukraine or in support of democratic movements globally.
4. **Participate in Local Activism**: Join local groups or movements that focus on international solidarity, peace, and justice. This can amplify our impact and connect us with like-minded individuals.
### Exact Actions We Can Take
1. **Petition for Stronger U.S. Support for Ukraine**: - Use platforms like Change.org or MoveOn.org to find or create petitions that demand the government take a stronger stance against Russian aggression and support Ukraine’s sovereignty. - Example Petition: "Demand the U.S. Congress to Increase Aid to Ukraine!" (search for similar petitions online).
2. **Contact Elected Officials**: - Write to your representatives urging them to support policies that prioritize democracy and human rights in Ukraine. Here are some key officials you might consider contacting:
**Senators**: - **Chuck Schumer (D-NY)**: - Email: schumer.senate.gov/contact/email-chuck - Address: 322 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510 - **Mitch McConnell (R-KY)**: - Email: mcconnell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/contact - Address: 317 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510
**House of Representatives**: - Find your local representative through [House.gov](https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative) and contact them via their public email or mailing address.
3. **Write to the State Department**: - Express your concerns and urge for a more robust diplomatic approach to the conflict. - **Antony Blinken, Secretary of State**: - Email: contact@state.gov - Address: U.S. Department of State, 2201 C Street NW, Washington, DC 20520
4. **Engage with Your Community**: - Organize or participate in local events, discussions, or protests advocating for peace and support for Ukraine. Use social media to raise awareness and gather support.
5. **Support Ukrainian Causes**: - Donate to organizations providing humanitarian aid to those affected by the war in Ukraine. Examples include: - **GlobalGiving**: [GlobalGiving.org](https://www.globalgiving.org/projects/ukraine-crisis-relief-fund/) - **Doctors Without Borders (Médecins Sans Frontières)**: [DoctorsWithoutBorders.org](https://www.doctorswithoutborders.org/)
### What to Say
When contacting officials or participating in petitions, consider using the following points:
- **Express Urgency**: Highlight the immediate need for U.S. support for Ukraine amidst increasing aggression from Russia. - **Call for Accountability**: Demand that U.S. foreign policy upholds international law and supports democratic nations. - **Advocate for Refugee and Humanitarian Support**: Stress the importance of providing aid to those displaced or affected by the conflict. - **Encourage Diplomatic Solutions**: Urge representatives to pursue diplomatic pathways that prioritize peace and human rights.
By taking these concrete actions, we can collectively influence our government and support a just and peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict, ensuring that the interests of democracy and human rights take precedence over political maneuvering.