Trump calls on Zelenskyy to 'make a deal' after productive talks with Putin
endtimeheadlines.org -- Friday, August 15, 2025, 10:58:34 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: Foreign Policy & International Relations, U.S.–Russia Relations, Media Coverage & Press Relations
President Donald Trump rated his closely-watched summit Friday with Russian President Vladimir Putin a "10" out of 10 and touted "very good progress" in the road to peace in Ukraine, but said "there's no deal until there's a deal," in an exclusive interview on "Hannity."
"I can tell you, the meeting was a very warm meeting," President Trump told Fox News. "You know, he's a strong guy, he's tough as hell on all of that, but the meeting was a very warm meeting between two very important countries, and it's very good when they get along.
I think we're pretty close to a deal. Now look, Ukraine has to agree to it."
The two world leaders gathered in Alaska on Friday afternoon in hopes of peacefully working towards an end to the war in Ukraine.
On Air Force One, President Trump said he was meeting with the Russian leader to "save a lot of lives" and expressed hopes for a ceasefire in the future. The commander-in-chief later reported the summit was "extremely productive," but that they were "not there yet" on ending the conflict.
"There were many, many points that we agreed on, most of them, I would say," Trump told the press following the meeting. "A couple of big ones that we haven't quite gotten there, but we've made some headway. So, there's no deal until there's a deal."
Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed similar sentiments, adding the summit was a "constructive atmosphere of mutual respect."
The commander-in-chief told "Hannity" the leaders "spoke very sincerely" and he thinks Putin "wants to see it done." READ MORE
Sign Our PetitionIn recent developments, former President Donald Trump’s remarks regarding his summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin highlight a complex and multifaceted geopolitical landscape that has deep historical roots. By framing their meeting as a productive step toward peace in Ukraine, Trump not only positions himself as a potential peace broker but also underscores the ongoing struggle for sovereignty that has defined Ukraine's history since gaining independence in 1991. This narrative invites scrutiny about the implications of such high-level discussions, particularly as they relate to the rights and voices of the Ukrainian people themselves.
Historically, Ukraine has been situated at a crossroads of Eastern and Western influences, often caught in the geopolitical tug-of-war between Russia and NATO countries. The annexation of Crimea by Russia in 2014 and the subsequent conflict in Eastern Ukraine are pivotal events that have shaped contemporary Ukraine’s fight for territorial integrity and national identity. Trump's overture for peace must be understood in this context, as any resolution reached in discussions between the U.S. and Russia should not sideline Ukrainian sovereignty or the aspirations of its citizens. To advocate for a peace deal without the inclusion of Ukrainian voices risks repeating historical injustices where larger powers have dictated terms, disregarding the lived realities of those directly affected.
Moreover, Trump’s characterization of his meeting with Putin as “warm” and “constructive” raises important questions about accountability and the ethics of engaging with authoritarian regimes. The positive framing of such diplomatic encounters can serve to normalize actions taken by leaders like Putin, who has been widely criticized for human rights abuses and aggressive foreign policy. In contrast, it is crucial to remind our compatriots of the moral imperatives that should guide diplomatic relations—namely, the necessity to prioritize human rights, democratic governance, and the rule of law, especially in nations with histories of oppression and conflict. Advocating for peace should not come at the cost of complicity in authoritarianism.
Additionally, Trump’s call for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to “make a deal” raises alarms about the potential pressures that could be placed on Ukraine to concede territory or autonomy to appease Russian interests. The notion of urging Ukraine to compromise must be approached critically, considering the historical precedents of coercion and betrayal faced by nations in similar predicaments. It is essential to challenge the narrative that peace can be achieved through concessions that undermine a nation’s sovereignty, as such actions could set a dangerous precedent, emboldening aggressors and leaving marginalized communities vulnerable.
As we analyze these developments, it is vital to connect them to ongoing social struggles within the broader framework of international solidarity. The fight for self-determination, the protection of human rights, and the defense of democratic institutions are issues that resonate globally. The Ukrainian struggle is not isolated; rather, it is emblematic of larger battles against imperialism, authoritarianism, and economic exploitation. Therefore, advocating for a peace process that genuinely respects the aspirations of the Ukrainian people is not only a matter of foreign policy but also a commitment to justice and human dignity.
In conclusion, as Trump and Putin’s discussions unfold, it is imperative to stay vigilant and informed. Engaging in conversations about these issues means advocating for a more just and equitable approach to international relations—one that prioritizes the voices of those affected and refuses to accept compromises that come at their expense. By grounding our discourse in historical context and social justice principles, we can better equip ourselves to challenge narratives that seek to diminish the complexity of these geopolitical dynamics while reinforcing our commitment to a world where every nation’s sovereignty and democratic aspirations are respected and upheld.
The recent summit between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin has ignited significant conversation regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the broader implications of U.S.-Russia relations. Trump's enthusiastic assessment of the meeting, where he rated it a "10 out of 10," raises critical questions about the nature of diplomacy, the prioritization of national interests, and the ethical considerations surrounding foreign policy. Historically, U.S.-Russia interactions have been fraught with tension, especially in the wake of the Cold War and Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014. The desire for a peaceful resolution in Ukraine is commendable, yet the approach and rhetoric surrounding such diplomacy merit scrutiny, particularly when intertwined with national politics.
To evaluate Trump's portrayal of the summit, we must acknowledge the context in which these discussions are occurring. The war in Ukraine, ongoing since 2014, has resulted in thousands of casualties and has displaced millions. While any effort towards peace is essential, the nature of the negotiations and who is included in the conversation are pivotal. By emphasizing the importance of a deal "between Ukraine and Russia," Trump appears to sidestep the reality that Ukraine is not merely a passive participant in this process but a sovereign nation with its own rights and interests. It raises the question: can a deal truly be considered legitimate if it disregards the agency and voice of one of the main parties involved?
As Americans, it is crucial that we engage in the discourse surrounding U.S. foreign policy, particularly when it pertains to conflicts with far-reaching implications such as in Ukraine. We can advocate for a more inclusive approach to diplomacy that prioritizes human rights and the voices of those directly affected by conflict. This involves calling for a foreign policy that is transparent and rooted in respect for the self-determination of nations. Encouraging our representatives to take a stand against any negotiations that diminish Ukraine's sovereignty can serve as a powerful message that Americans prioritize ethical diplomacy over political expediency.
Furthermore, we can foster a greater understanding of the historical context of U.S.-Russia relations in educational spaces. For example, discussions about the expansion of NATO, the historical significance of the Cold War, and Russia's geopolitical strategies can inform citizens about the complexities of international relations. By equipping individuals with knowledge on these topics, we empower them to engage in informed discussions with those who may hold differing viewpoints. The more we understand and articulate the nuances of these issues, the better we can advocate for policies that promote peace without compromising democratic values.
In conclusion, while the summit between Trump and Putin may have been framed as a step towards peace, it is essential to scrutinize the implications of such meetings and the narratives that accompany them. As engaged citizens, we have the power to influence the course of U.S. foreign policy by advocating for a more ethical and inclusive approach to international diplomacy. By emphasizing the voices of those impacted by conflict, fostering educational discourse, and holding our leaders accountable, we can work towards a future where peace is not only pursued but achieved through just means.
In light of the recent summit between President Trump and President Putin regarding the situation in Ukraine, it's essential to engage actively in promoting a peaceful resolution and advocating for policies that prioritize human rights, diplomacy, and international cooperation. Here are some actionable steps individuals can take to make a difference:
### Personal Actions to Support Peace in Ukraine
1. **Educate Yourself and Others**: - Stay informed about the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, its historical context, and the impacts on civilians. - Share reliable sources of information, such as articles, documentaries, and podcasts, with friends and family to raise awareness.
2. **Engage in Local Activism**: - Join local peace organizations or humanitarian groups focused on supporting Ukraine. Examples include the Ukrainian National Women's League of America (UNWLA) or Amnesty International. - Participate in or organize community events that promote peace and solidarity with Ukraine.
3. **Online Advocacy**: - Use social media platforms to share information about the conflict, emphasizing the need for peaceful resolutions and humanitarian aid. - Create or join online petitions that call for diplomatic solutions and increased humanitarian support for Ukraine.
### Specific Actions to Take
1. **Sign and Share Petitions**: - **Petition for Increased Humanitarian Aid**: Look for petitions on platforms like Change.org or MoveOn.org that advocate for sending humanitarian aid to Ukraine. Share these petitions within your networks. - **Example Petition**: “Support Humanitarian Aid for Ukraine” on Change.org. Ensure the petition is geared towards federal action, such as increasing support through USAID.
2. **Contact Elected Officials**: - Write to your local and national representatives to express your views on the importance of diplomacy in resolving the conflict in Ukraine. Include specific requests for them to support peaceful negotiations. - **Who to Write To**: - Your state’s U.S. Senators and Representative. You can find their contact information on the official U.S. Congress website (congress.gov). - **Example of Names and Email Addresses**: - Senator Elizabeth Warren (massachusetts@warren.senate.gov) - Senator Ed Markey (markey@markey.senate.gov) - Representative Ayanna Pressley (contact form on pressley.house.gov) - **What to Say**: - “Dear [Senator/Representative's Name], I urge you to support diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict in Ukraine. It is crucial that the U.S. prioritizes humanitarian aid and encourages negotiations rather than escalating military involvement. Thank you for your attention to this important matter.”
3. **Support Humanitarian Organizations**: - Donate to organizations providing aid to Ukraine. Examples include: - **Doctors Without Borders**: Provide medical assistance to those affected by the conflict. - **World Food Programme**: Focuses on food security for those displaced by war. - Consider organizing fundraisers in your community to raise money for these organizations.
4. **Engage with Local Media**: - Write letters to the editor of local newspapers expressing your views on the importance of a peaceful resolution in Ukraine. Share personal stories or insights to humanize the issue. - Example Format: “As a concerned citizen, I believe that the U.S. must take a stand for peace in Ukraine. It is imperative that we advocate for humanitarian solutions rather than military ones…”
### Conclusion
By taking these actions, individuals can influence the narrative surrounding the conflict in Ukraine and promote a peaceful resolution. Engaging in education, activism, and direct communication with representatives creates a collective voice calling for diplomacy and humanitarian support. Every action, no matter how small, contributes to the larger goal of peace and stability in the region.