Trump-Putin Alaska Summit: Donald Trump Says He and Vladimir Putin Made 'Great Progress' Toward Deal, Will Call Volodymyr Zelensky and NATO Leaders (Watch Video) | 🌎 LatestLY
latestly.com -- Friday, August 15, 2025, 9:55:51 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: U.S.–Russia Relations, Foreign Policy & International Relations, U.S. Elections & Voting Rights
Anchorage, August 16: US President Donald Trump said on Friday that he and Russian President Vladimir Putin "made some headway" and "great progress" in their bilateral meeting, but added that "there's no deal until there's a deal". "I will call up NATO in a little while. I will call up the various people that I think are appropriate. And I'll, of course, call up President (Volodymyr) Zelensky and tell him about today's meeting. It's ultimately up to them," Trump said after Friday's summit in Anchorage, Alaska, CNN reported.
"We had an extremely productive meeting, and many points were agreed to," the US President said, adding, "We didn't get there, but we have a very good chance of getting there." Trump added that Ukraine would have to "agree" with what Secretary of State Marco Rubio, special envoy Steve Witkoff and others in his administration discussed with Putin on Friday, though he did not delve into specifics on any framework for a deal. Trump and Putin took no questions after their statements. Putin Declines Ukraine Questions as 'historic' Trump-Putin Summit Opens in Alaska.
Putin kicked of remarks and spoke for about eight minutes. Trump, who is known for typically longer and at times free-wheeling news conferences, only spoke for about four minutes. "I'm going to start making a few phone calls and tell them what happened," Trump said. Putin began remarks at the press briefing by acknowledging that US-Russia relations have suffered in recent years. Usually when an American President hosts a foreign counterpart, a joint news conference would begin with remarks from the US leader followed by his guest.
Putin said the primary causes of the war must be eliminated for the war in Ukraine to end. The Russian leader also told Ukrainian and European leaders not to interfere with "the emerging progress". Negotiations between Putin and Trump were held in a "respectful, constructive and mutually respectful atmosphere," Putin said. Putin said he agrees that the security of Ukraine should be ensured.
He also claimed at one point that the war in Ukraine would not have happened had Trump been President in 2022. Trump said he has various calls to make following the summit -- some of which include calls to NATO, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and other appropriate officials. Trump has long claimed that he would have averted the full-scale conflict that broke out during Joe Biden's administration when Russia invaded Ukraine. On Friday, Putin said that Trump's claim was correct - a position he has stated before. Trump, Putin Arrive in Alaska for Summit Focused on Russia-Ukraine War.
Putin said that in 2022 he had tried to convince Biden to avoid allowing the situation to progress to a point in which "serious consequences in the form of military actions could occur". "President Trump and I established a very good, businesslike and trusting contact. And I have every reason to believe that by moving along this path, we can reach - and the sooner, the better - the end of the conflict in Ukraine," the Russian President added.
During the press conference in Anchorage, Alaska, Putin told Ukrainian and European leaders not to interfere. "We expect that Kyiv and European capitals will perceive all this in a constructive manner and will not create any obstacles, will not make attempts to disrupt the emerging progress through provocations and behind-the-scenes intrigues," he said. "The situation in Ukraine has to do with the fundamental threats to our security," Putin said during a press conference on Friday in Alaska.
While Russia is interested in putting an end to what's happening in Ukraine, Putin said "we're convinced that in order to make the settlement lasting and long term, we need to eliminate all the primary roots, primary causes of that conflict". "To consider all legitimate concerns of Russia and to reinstate a just balance of security in Europe and in the world on the whole. And I agree with President Trump, as he has (said) today, that naturally, the security of Ukraine should be ensured as well," he added. "Naturally, we are prepared to work on that I would like to hope that the agreement that we've reached together will help us bring closer to that goal and will pave the path towards peace in Ukraine," Putin said.
Putin has floated a different location for his next meeting with President Donald Trump in Moscow. Putin's suggestion that a subsequent summit take place in the Russian capital -- a request he made in English -- prompted an ambivalent reaction from Trump. The American President acknowledged that agreeing to that proposal would be highly controversial, but he didn't completely shut the door to it. "That's an interesting one, I'll get a little heat on that one," Trump said. "But I could see it possibly happening."
US President Donald Trump says he's "always had a fantastic relationship with President (Vladimir) Putin" but that it was impeded by investigations during his first term into Moscow's interference into the 2016 US election. "We had many, many tough meetings, good meetings," Trump said during a joint news conference. "We were interfered with by the Russia, Russia, Russia hoax. I've made it a little bit tougher to deal with, but he understood it," Trump said. Earlier, the two Presidents announced a breakthrough after three hours of talks on Ukraine in Anchorage, Alaska, on Friday.
Neither leader gave any details of the agreement or say if there was going to be ceasefire. Going into the summit, Trump said that he will not be negotiating on behalf of Ukraine, and it was up to Zelensky to make a deal. The two Presidents did not take questions from reporters. Putin said, "We have to amend the situation to move on from confrontation to dialogue." "However much strange it may sound in these conditions, we (Russia and Ukraine) have the same roots and everything that's happening is a tragedy for us and a terrible wound," he said.
"Therefore, the country is sincerely interested in putting an end to it." Instead of the planned three phases of the summit starting with a one-on-one meeting, they went straight into the second phase with Trump's Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Putin's foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov, Defence Minister Andrei Belousoy, and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov participating. It did not appear that the third phase of a luncheon meeting with more officials was taking place. Trump welcomed Putin on a red carpet and they talked in a friendly manner as they entered a limousine and continued their conversation.
Sign Our PetitionThe recent summit between former President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska further complicates the already fraught geopolitical landscape surrounding the Ukraine conflict and raises significant questions about the nature of U.S.-Russia relations. While Trump claimed that substantial progress was made towards a potential agreement, the lack of specific details and the absence of a joint press conference indicate a troubling lack of transparency and accountability. This situation reflects a historical pattern of elite diplomacy that often marginalizes the voices of those most affected by such decisions, particularly the people of Ukraine.
Historically, U.S.-Russia relations have been fraught with tension, shaped by the remnants of the Cold War and a series of conflicts that have tested the limits of international diplomacy. The current war in Ukraine can be traced back to Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014 and its support for separatists in Eastern Ukraine. In this context, Trump's assertion that he could have prevented the full-scale invasion that occurred under President Biden's administration presents a dangerous simplification of complex geopolitical dynamics. It suggests that effective diplomacy can occur without addressing the underlying issues of imperial ambition and territorial integrity that fuel such conflicts.
Moreover, Trump's approach, characterized by informal meetings and personal rapport with authoritarian leaders, often undermines established diplomatic norms which prioritize multilateral discussions and collective security frameworks. The summit's emphasis on unilateral negotiations between Trump and Putin is reminiscent of historical episodes where powerful leaders bypassed international consensus for personal or political gain, leaving marginalized communities—like those in Ukraine—vulnerable and voiceless. The callousness with which these negotiations can occur highlights a broader issue within international relations where the interests of powerful nations often overshadow the rights and needs of smaller nations striving for sovereignty and self-determination.
The implications of this summit also resonate within ongoing social struggles against authoritarianism and for democracy worldwide. Trump's relationship with Putin has long raised concerns about the erosion of democratic norms not only in the U.S. but also in countries like Ukraine, which has been fighting for its democratic identity against external aggression. As Putin continues to position himself as a stabilizing force in the region, it is critical to recognize the historical context of his regime's violent repression of dissent and its aggressive foreign policy that seeks to re-establish Russia's influence over its neighbors.
In this light, the summit serves as a reminder of the need for a more robust and principled approach to foreign policy—one that centers the voices of those most affected by geopolitical decisions. Advocates for social justice and international solidarity must challenge narratives that portray power dynamics as simply transactional. Instead, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of respecting the sovereignty of nations, supporting grassroots movements for democracy, and ensuring that diplomatic efforts are inclusive rather than exclusionary. As the world watches the unfolding consequences of this summit, it is imperative that we remain vigilant and vocal in defense of the principles that protect human rights and the integrity of nations.
The recent summit between former President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Anchorage, Alaska, has illuminated the complexities of international diplomacy, particularly concerning the ongoing war in Ukraine. Trump's comments about the "great progress" made during their discussions underscore a critical moment in U.S.-Russia relations, one that raises numerous questions about the implications for global security, NATO's role, and the future of Ukraine itself. This meeting, framed by the historical context of U.S.-Russia relations, offers an opportunity for Americans to engage in meaningful dialogues about foreign policy and its consequences.
Historically, the relationship between the United States and Russia has oscillated between cooperation and hostility, often hinging on the actions of leaders and the geopolitical landscape. The Cold War left lingering shadows, with both nations perpetually wary of each other’s intentions. Trump's assertion that he could have prevented the Ukraine conflict during his presidency, echoed by Putin, reflects a narrative that simplifies the multifaceted nature of international diplomacy. In reality, the war in Ukraine is the product of decades of complex interplay involving NATO expansion, Russian historical claims, and the aspirations of a sovereign nation to align more closely with Western Europe. This summit thus becomes a focal point for discussing not only past decisions but also present responsibilities in addressing aggression and fostering peace.
For many, the summit may raise eyebrows, particularly regarding the apparent ease with which Trump engages with Putin. The rhetoric of "progress" while neglecting the realities faced by Ukrainians living under the specter of war is concerning. The idea that negotiations can occur without Ukrainian input, as implied by Trump's statements, undermines the sovereignty of Ukraine and reduces its leaders to mere negotiators rather than active participants in determining their fate. This is a critical moment for Americans to reflect on the importance of including the voices of those directly affected by conflict in discussions about their future. We must advocate for policies that prioritize diplomatic engagement that includes all stakeholders, not just the major powers.
As citizens, we can respond to the implications of the Anchorage summit by advocating for transparency and accountability in U.S. foreign policy. This includes demanding that our representatives ensure that any negotiations involving Ukraine maintain its sovereignty and territorial integrity at the forefront. Engaging with local representatives, signing petitions, and participating in public forums can amplify our collective voice, urging leaders to adopt a more inclusive and principled approach to international dialogue. As discussions about foreign policy become increasingly polarized, it is vital to maintain focus on human rights and international law as guiding principles for our government.
Moreover, educating ourselves and our communities about the history and current state of U.S.-Russia relations is essential. Understanding the nuances of foreign policy—including the implications of NATO's eastward expansion and Russia's historical grievances—empowers citizens to engage in informed discussions. By fostering awareness around these issues, we can create a populace that is not only informed but also actively engaged in advocating for policies that prioritize diplomacy over confrontation. This is particularly relevant as we approach elections, where foreign policy can often take a back seat to domestic issues.
In conclusion, the Trump-Putin summit serves as a reminder of the intricate dynamics of international relations and the significance of maintaining a principled stance in diplomacy. As Americans, we have the opportunity to shape the conversation around foreign policy by holding our leaders accountable, advocating for inclusive negotiations, and educating ourselves and our communities on these critical issues. Only through active engagement and informed discourse can we hope to influence a future that prioritizes peace, stability, and respect for sovereignty on the global stage.
The recent summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in Alaska has raised significant concerns about international diplomacy, particularly regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the implications for NATO and global security. Here are actionable steps we can take to respond to the situation:
### What Can We Personally Do About This?
1. **Educate Ourselves and Others**: Understanding the complexities of international relations, especially with regard to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, is crucial. Share information through social media, community discussions, or local events.
2. **Engage with Local Representatives**: Contacting elected officials is essential. They need to hear from constituents about their concerns regarding U.S.-Russia relations and the Ukraine conflict.
3. **Support Organizations Advocating for Peace**: Contribute to or volunteer with organizations focused on peacebuilding, diplomacy, and support for Ukraine.
4. **Promote Awareness through Petitions**: Start or sign petitions that call for accountability and transparency in U.S. foreign policy, especially regarding military support for Ukraine.
5. **Participate in Peaceful Protests or Rallies**: Join events that advocate for peace and diplomatic solutions to international conflicts.
### Exact Actions We Can Personally Take
1. **Contact Elected Officials**: - Reach out to your congressional representatives to express your concerns about the Trump-Putin meeting and its implications for U.S. foreign policy. - **Example Contacts**: - **Senator Elizabeth Warren**: (202) 224-4543, elizabeth_warren@warren.senate.gov - **Senator Bernie Sanders**: (202) 224-5141, info@sanders.senate.gov - **Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez**: (202) 225-3965, aoc@mail.house.gov
**What to Say**: - "I am concerned about the recent developments in U.S.-Russia relations following the Trump-Putin summit. It is crucial that our government prioritizes transparency, accountability, and the security of Ukraine. I urge you to advocate for a robust diplomatic approach and to hold any leaders accountable for their actions."
2. **Start or Sign Petitions**: - Use platforms like Change.org or MoveOn.org to create or sign petitions demanding that the U.S. government does not compromise Ukraine's sovereignty in negotiations. - **Example Petition**: "Demand Full Support for Ukraine Against Aggression" - Share this petition through social media and encourage friends and family to sign.
3. **Support Peace Organizations**: - Consider donating to or volunteering with groups like: - **Human Rights Watch**: [hrw.org](https://www.hrw.org) - **Amnesty International**: [amnesty.org](https://www.amnesty.org) - These organizations often provide resources and campaigns that align with advocating for peace and the protection of human rights.
4. **Engage in Community Awareness**: - Organize or attend local discussions or forums on the topic. Use community centers, libraries, or local universities as venues. - Invite guest speakers or experts in international relations to share insights.
5. **Utilize Social Media for Advocacy**: - Create posts to raise awareness about the issues stemming from U.S.-Russia relations and the implications for Ukraine. Use hashtags like #StandWithUkraine, #PeaceNotWar, and #DiplomacyOverConflict.
### Conclusion
By taking these actionable steps, individuals can contribute to a larger dialogue about the importance of diplomatic solutions in international conflicts. It is essential to hold our leaders accountable and advocate for policies that prioritize peace, security, and the protection of human rights. Your voice matters, and collective action can lead to meaningful change.