Ottawa voices its resolve for Ukraine as Trump-Putin talks underway in Alaska
castanet.net -- Friday, August 15, 2025, 9:29:22 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: U.S.–Russia Relations, Foreign Policy & International Relations, Presidential Campaigns
Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks with United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan during their meeting at the Grand Kremlin Palace in Moscow, Russia, Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025.
Prime Minister Mark Carney's government says Canada's support for Ukraine is resolute ahead of talks today between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Trump has arranged the talks in Anchorage, Alaska, to discuss a possible land swap between territories held by Ukraine and those claimed by Russia, despite not including Kyiv in the talks.
The Kremlin says the talks are set to start this morning at 11:30 local time, which is 3:30 p.m. ET.
Putin's foreign policy adviser, Yuri Ushakov, told reporters that Trump and Putin will first sit down for a one-on-one meeting followed by a meeting between the two delegations. Then talks will continue over "a working breakfast."
A joint news conference will follow, Ushakov said, though Trump later said no decisions have been made about holding a news conference with Putin.
Trump said Thursday there was a 25 per cent chance that today's summit would fail, but he also floated the idea that, if the meeting succeeds, he could bring Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to Alaska for a subsequent, three-way meeting.
Trump warned Wednesday of "very severe consequences" for Russia if Putin doesn't agree to stop his invasion of Ukraine after today's meeting, and also said Thursday he might be willing to stay in Alaska beyond Friday, depending on what happens with Putin.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov tamped down expectations for any breakthroughs from the Friday summit, saying there were no plans to sign documents and that it would be a "big mistake" to predict the results of the negotiations, according to Russian news outlet Interfax.
Both Zelenskyy and the Europeans have worried that the bilateral U.S.-Russia summit would leave them and their interests sidelined, and that any conclusions could favour Moscow and leave Ukraine and Europe's future security in jeopardy by emboldening Russia to pursue more invasions.
Prime Minister Mark Carney took part in talks Wednesday with European leaders, and spoke directly with Zelenskyy on Monday. He said Canada's partners are "united on shared principles," particularly that Ukrainians must decide on their own future.
"Diplomatic efforts must be reinforced by military and economic pressure on Russia to end its unjustified war of aggression," Carney wrote Monday on social media.
"We welcome the leadership of the United States in working toward securing a just and lasting peace in Ukraine."
Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand spoke with her Ukrainian counterpart Thursday, and said borders can't be changed by violence.
"We will continue to support Ukraine through diplomatic measures, military assistance and economic aid to hold Russia accountable for its illegal war," she wrote on social media, adding that Canada's support is "unwavering."
Analysts say western solidarity with Ukraine is crucial, as Putin seeks to break the resolve that NATO alliance members have shown.
Eitvydas Bajarunas, a former Lithuanian ambassador to Russia, told an online panel Thursday that the best thing countries like Canada can do is show unwavering commitment, because Moscow is betting western allies will eventually splinter.
"Putin (has) understood his strength is to outsmart the West, to outmanoeuvre the West, to wait until the West starts to crumble," Bajarunas told the Center for European Policy Analysis think tank.
"One of the goals of Putin is definitely to put a wedge into American-European relations, and to use all methods, including hybrid warfare and disinformation, to manipulate public opinion."
Olga Tokariuk, a Kyiv-based fellow with that think tank, told the panel that an optimal scenario for Ukraine would be if Moscow and Washington have no agreement Friday, "if there is like no pressure in Ukraine to make any territorial concessions."
Even better for Ukraine would be fresh U.S. sanctions on Russia, if Trump feels Putin is stalling, she said.
"This war is not about territories of Ukraine. Russia has vast territories of its own," she said. "This war is about that destruction of Ukraine as a sovereign and independent state, as a state aligned with the West, as a democracy."
In recent days, Putin has expanded the scope of what the talks involve, including themes like nuclear arms control and "long-term conditions of peace between our countries, and in Europe, and in the world as a whole."
Jason Israel, a former adviser with the U.S. National Security Council, said Moscow is trying to paint Russia and the U.S. as influential countries that have restored relations after years of diplomatic chill.
He told the panel that if there is any agreement on Ukraine Friday such as a ceasefire, it remains unclear how such a deal would be implemented, as European leaders are not at the table and haven't consented to actually putting such a ceasefire into place.
Kyiv has long insisted that safeguards against future Russian attacks provided by its Western allies would be a precondition for achieving a durable end to the fighting. Yet many Western governments have been hesitant to commit military personnel.
Countries in the coalition, which includes France and the U.K., have been trying for months to secure U.S. security backing, should it be required.
Sign Our PetitionThe recent discussions surrounding the conflict in Ukraine, particularly the talks between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, raise critical questions about power dynamics in international relations and the implications for nations like Ukraine. As Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney asserts the importance of Ukrainian sovereignty and the necessity for their involvement in any negotiations affecting their future, it's vital to reflect on the historical context that has shaped this conflict. Since the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, Ukraine has navigated a tumultuous path, oscillating between Russian influence and aspirations for European integration. This historical backdrop is crucial for understanding the current geopolitical climate and the precarious position of Ukraine amid these negotiations.
The notion of a land swap, as suggested by Trump, is particularly concerning given its unilateral nature and the exclusion of Ukrainian representatives. This approach echoes a long-standing pattern in geopolitics where the interests of smaller nations are often overlooked in favor of agreements made by major powers. This dynamic is not novel; it harks back to the 1938 Munich Agreement, where European powers decided the fate of Czechoslovakia without its involvement, a decision that ultimately emboldened further aggression from Nazi Germany. In the case of Ukraine, the potential for such sidelining is alarming, especially as both European leaders and President Zelenskyy express apprehension over the ramifications of a deal that could sacrifice their national integrity in favor of appeasing Russia.
Moreover, the insistence by both Carney and Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand that "borders can't be changed by violence" serves as a poignant reminder of the principle of territorial integrity, a cornerstone of international law. The ongoing war of aggression launched by Russia starkly contravenes this principle, highlighting the need for a collective international response. The calls for military and economic pressure on Russia are vital not only for supporting Ukraine but also for upholding global norms against the forcible alteration of borders. Such principles are not merely abstract legalities; they are rooted in the broader fight for justice and self-determination that has characterized countless struggles throughout history, from decolonization movements to contemporary struggles for sovereignty against imperialist forces.
The discussions in Alaska also reflect the broader geopolitical chess game in which nations like Canada play a significant role. Carney's proactive engagement with European leaders and direct communication with Zelenskyy signifies a commitment to multilateralism in contrast to the often unilateral actions seen from the U.S. under Trump. This is a critical juncture for Canada to assert its position not just as a supporter of Ukraine, but as a leader advocating for a rules-based international order that prioritizes diplomacy over aggression. The potential sidelining of European and Ukrainian voices in these discussions underscores the need for a unified front among Western nations, emphasizing that any resolution must center the agency of those most affected.
Finally, the idea that talks could lead to a more secure future for Europe is fraught with complexities. History has shown that appeasement rarely leads to lasting peace; rather, it emboldens aggressors and perpetuates cycles of conflict. As the world watches the developments from Anchorage, it is imperative to advocate for a strategy that emphasizes solidarity with Ukraine, ensuring they are not merely passive participants in their fate. A just and equitable resolution requires an acknowledgment of the historical injustices that have led to the current conflict and a commitment to dismantling the systems of power that enable such aggressions. In this light, the ongoing dialogue about Ukraine must not only seek to resolve the immediate crisis but also address the underlying social and political structures that perpetuate violence and instability on the global stage.
The unfolding situation surrounding Ukraine, particularly in the context of U.S.-Russia negotiations, presents a critical moment for international relations and the geopolitical landscape. The recent talks arranged by President Trump with Russian President Putin in Alaska, while ostensibly aimed at discussing a potential land swap, raise significant concerns about the implications for Ukraine's sovereignty and the broader stability of Eastern Europe. The decision to engage in talks without direct Ukrainian representation is not only a diplomatic oversight but also a stark reminder of the potential marginalization of smaller nations in international negotiations. This scenario reflects a historical pattern wherein powerful nations dictate terms without adequate regard for the sovereignty and voices of affected states.
Historically, Ukraine has been a focal point of geopolitical tension, especially following the annexation of Crimea by Russia in 2014. This act of aggression set a dangerous precedent and underscored the volatility of post-Soviet space. The international community, particularly Western powers, have often called for a respect for national borders and a commitment to uphold international law. In this context, the current discussions between Trump and Putin could potentially undermine these principles, especially if outcomes are reached that favor Russian interests over Ukrainian self-determination. As Canadians and Americans observe these developments, it is crucial to recognize the broader implications of sidelining Ukraine in these negotiations—such actions risk emboldening aggressors and destabilizing a region that is already fraught with conflict.
At the heart of these developments is the question of how to take action as citizens of democratic nations. It is imperative that we advocate for a robust and principled foreign policy that prioritizes the voices of those directly affected by conflict. Grassroots organizations and advocacy groups can play a significant role in mobilizing public opinion against any agreements that compromise Ukraine's territorial integrity or sovereignty. Engaging in dialogue with local representatives, participating in peace rallies, and supporting campaigns that call for transparency in foreign policy can amplify the message that the security and future of Ukraine should be determined by Ukrainians themselves.
Moreover, it is essential to push for a multilateral approach to diplomacy that includes not only the major players like the U.S. and Russia but also the European Union and Ukraine. This approach can reinforce the idea that international security is a shared responsibility and that all stakeholders have a role to play in ensuring peace and stability. Advocating for a return to international coalitions that focus on collective security and diplomatic resolutions can help mitigate the risks of unilateral decisions that favor one side over another. Engaging in discussions about the importance of global cooperation can also serve as a powerful counter-narrative to isolationist tendencies that may arise.
Finally, education plays a crucial role in equipping individuals with the tools necessary to engage in informed discussions about foreign policy. By promoting awareness of international relations, historical context, and the importance of sovereignty, citizens can become more effective advocates for just policies. Workshops, community discussions, and online forums can provide platforms for individuals to learn about the complexities of the situation in Ukraine and to discuss constructive ways to engage with right-wing perspectives that may overlook the nuances of international diplomacy. By fostering a well-informed electorate, we can better hold our leaders accountable and advocate for policies that reflect our shared values of justice, peace, and respect for national sovereignty.
In response to the ongoing situation regarding the Ukraine-Russia conflict as outlined in the article, there are several actionable steps we can take as individuals to support Ukraine and advocate for a peaceful resolution that respects its sovereignty. Here is a detailed list of ideas and actions you can personally consider:
### 1. **Support and Educate Yourself on the Conflict** - **Read and Share Information**: Familiarize yourself with the complexities of the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Books, documentaries, and reputable news sources can provide in-depth understanding. Share this information within your community to raise awareness.
### 2. **Engage with Local and National Representatives** - **Contact Your Elected Officials**: Write to your representatives to express your concerns about the situation. Urge them to support Ukraine through diplomatic and military aid, and to push for inclusive dialogues that respect Ukraine’s sovereignty. - **Example Representatives**: - **U.S. Senator**: [Name], [State] - Email: [Senator's Email], Mailing Address: [Senator's Office Address] - **House Representative**: [Name], [District] - Email: [Representative's Email], Mailing Address: [Representative's Office Address] - **Sample Message**: ``` Dear [Representative's Name],
I am writing to express my concern regarding the ongoing negotiations between the United States and Russia, particularly the potential sidelining of Ukraine in these discussions. It is crucial that any agreements respect Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Please continue to support diplomatic measures, military assistance, and economic aid to Ukraine.
Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.
Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Contact Information] ```
### 3. **Participate in Advocacy Campaigns** - **Sign and Share Petitions**: Participate in online petitions that call for the U.S. government to maintain strong support for Ukraine. - **Example Petitions**: - Change.org: Search for petitions related to Ukraine support. - ACLU: Look for petitions advocating for human rights and support for Ukraine. - **Example Petition Text**: ``` We, the undersigned, call on the U.S. government to prioritize Ukraine's sovereignty in all discussions with Russia, ensuring that Ukraine is present in talks affecting its future. We demand a commitment to providing ongoing military and economic support to Ukraine to uphold democracy and peace in the region. ```
### 4. **Engage with Non-Profit Organizations** - **Donate to Organizations Supporting Ukraine**: Contribute to NGOs that provide humanitarian aid to Ukraine or support democratic movements. - **Organizations to Consider**: - **GlobalGiving**: Projects supporting Ukrainian refugees. Website: [GlobalGiving.org](https://www.globalgiving.org) - **International Rescue Committee (IRC)**: Provides aid to displaced individuals. Website: [Rescue.org](https://www.rescue.org) - **Volunteer Your Time**: Many local organizations are working to support Ukrainian refugees. Consider volunteering to help with logistics, fundraising, or community integration efforts.
### 5. **Raise Awareness Through Social Media** - **Utilize Your Platforms**: Share informative content about the situation in Ukraine on your social media. Use hashtags like #StandWithUkraine and #SupportUkraine to amplify visibility. - **Create Informative Posts**: Develop content that addresses the importance of supporting Ukraine and the risks of sidelining its interests in international discussions.
### 6. **Participate in Peaceful Demonstrations and Events** - **Join or Organize Rallies**: Participate in or help organize local events that advocate for Ukraine, emphasizing solidarity and peace. - Check local community boards or social media groups for upcoming events.
### 7. **Engage in Community Discussions** - **Host or Join Forums**: Organize discussions in your community or join existing ones to talk about the conflict, its implications, and how local communities can support Ukraine.
By taking these actions, individuals can contribute to a broader movement advocating for peace, support for Ukraine, and a commitment to international justice. It’s essential to remain engaged, informed, and active in these efforts.