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Trump speaks with Zelenskiy, NATO leaders after summit with Putin

streetinsider.com -- Saturday, August 16, 2025, 3:59:46 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: U.S.–Russia Relations, Foreign Policy & International Relations, Presidential Campaigns
Trump speaks with Zelenskiy, NATO leaders after summit with Putin

By Steve Holland and Kanishka Singh

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Donald Trump held a lengthy phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and subsequently spoke to NATO leaders after the U.S. president's Friday summit in Alaska with Russian President Vladimir Putin, the White House said.

Trump held the calls on his way back to Washington, landing in the early hours of Saturday morning.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen was among those on the call, in which Trump briefed European leaders about the summit, von der Leyen's spokesperson said. A NATO official said NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte also took part, while the Elysee confirmed French President Emmanuel Macron's participation.

Leaders from Germany, Finland, Poland, Italy and Britain also joined the call, according to the European Commission.

Axios reporter Barak Ravid said, citing a source, that Trump spoke for more than an hour and a half with Zelenskiy and European leaders.

Zelenskiy later said he would travel to Washington on Monday.

The highly anticipated summit in Alaska yielded no agreement to resolve or pause Russia's war in Ukraine, although both Trump and Putin described the talks as productive before heading home.

During a brief appearance before the media following the nearly three-hour meeting in Alaska, the two leaders said they had made progress on unspecified issues. But they offered no details and took no questions. Trump also did not take questions when he landed in the United States at Joint Base Andrews.

During his presidential campaign and upon taking office, Trump had vowed to quickly end the war in Ukraine that began with Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022 but has thus far failed to deliver on that promise.

(Reporting by Kanishka Singh and Steve Holland in Washington; Editing by Kirsten Donovan)

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Opinion:

The recent summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in Alaska has reignited a complex and contentious debate over U.S. foreign policy, especially regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This meeting, marked by a lack of concrete outcomes, highlights the persistence of geopolitical tensions that have historical roots. The war in Ukraine, which escalated dramatically with Russia's invasion in 2022, is not merely a regional conflict; it embodies the broader struggle for democracy and self-determination against authoritarianism. The failure of Trump to deliver on his promise to resolve this conflict reflects a deeper systemic issue within U.S. foreign policy—one that often prioritizes optics over substance and fails to address the underlying causes of such conflicts.

Historically, the United States has positioned itself as a champion of democratic values, particularly in Eastern Europe, where nations like Ukraine have sought to align more closely with Western institutions such as NATO and the European Union. However, this commitment has frequently been undermined by geopolitical pragmatism. The U.S. has engaged with authoritarian regimes for strategic reasons, often sidelining the very principles of democracy and human rights it purports to uphold. Trump’s meetings with Putin serve as a stark reminder of this disconnect, as the rhetoric of diplomacy is not matched by actions that tangibly support Ukrainian sovereignty or the broader international rules-based order. When leaders like Trump engage in discussions without tangible commitments to support victims of aggression, it raises questions about the sincerity of their commitments to democratic ideals.

Moreover, the lack of agreement or pause in the conflict following the Alaska summit underscores the limitations of diplomatic engagement without a clear strategy for conflict resolution. The Russian invasion has resulted in significant humanitarian crises, with millions of Ukrainians displaced and countless lives lost. The international community's response has often been criticized as reactive rather than proactive, failing to provide the robust support needed to deter aggression effectively. This situation is exacerbated by the political climate in which leaders like Trump operate, where domestic political considerations often overshadow international responsibilities. The failure to bring substantive solutions to the table speaks to a broader disregard for the human cost of conflict, which should be a priority for any leader seeking to position themselves as a moral authority on the global stage.

The phone call between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, as well as discussions with NATO leaders, indicates a recognition of the ongoing crisis yet offers little in terms of actionable outcomes. This scenario reflects a troubling trend where leaders are more interested in maintaining diplomatic appearances than in engaging in the difficult work of negotiating peace. The mention of progress on "unspecified issues" serves to placate both domestic and international audiences without addressing the pressing needs on the ground. This is particularly concerning given that many countries in Europe are directly impacted by the instability created by the conflict, and their leaders are increasingly vocal about the need for a more unified and effective response to Russian aggression.

As the situation in Ukraine continues to evolve, it is vital for citizens and activists to hold their leaders accountable, demanding not only rhetoric but also meaningful action. The historical context of the Cold War and its aftermath reveals that the consequences of inaction can reverberate for generations. The ongoing struggle for justice in Ukraine is intertwined with global movements against authoritarianism, imperialism, and for the right to self-determination. By connecting current events to these broader social struggles, we can foster a more informed and engaged electorate that prioritizes the protection of human rights and democratic values on the global stage. As discussions around foreign policy continue, it is essential to advocate for a comprehensive approach that emphasizes diplomacy, accountability, and the well-being of those affected by conflict, rather than mere political expediency.

Action:

The recent communication between Donald Trump and various leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, underscores a complex and ongoing geopolitical landscape that requires careful analysis and a proactive response from concerned citizens. This situation is not merely a reflection of Trump’s attempts to navigate foreign relations; it is emblematic of deeper historical tensions, particularly the West’s relationship with Russia and the ongoing implications of that for Ukraine and its sovereignty. The lack of tangible outcomes from Trump's summit with Putin, despite both leaders' claims of progress, raises questions about the efficacy of diplomacy when it is not accompanied by substantial commitments and actions.

Historically, the tensions between Russia and Ukraine can be traced back to the dissolution of the Soviet Union, with Ukraine's independence in 1991 marking a significant turning point. The subsequent years saw Ukraine oscillating between pro-European aspirations and pro-Russian influence, culminating in the 2014 annexation of Crimea by Russia. The ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine has claimed thousands of lives and displaced millions. The Western response has included sanctions against Russia and support for Ukraine, yet the effectiveness of these measures has been called into question, particularly when high-profile meetings yield no concrete outcomes. This demonstrates the need for a more robust and consistent approach to ensuring Ukrainian sovereignty and regional stability.

The apparent lack of resolution from the recent summit highlights a broader issue: the importance of holding leaders accountable for their promises and actions. While Trump had campaigned on a platform of resolving the conflict swiftly, the reality has been a continuation of hostilities without substantial diplomatic breakthroughs. This situation is a reminder of the need for a vigilant and engaged electorate that demands transparency and accountability from their leaders. As citizens, it is vital to scrutinize not only the rhetoric of our leaders but also the results of their foreign policy initiatives. Engaging in informed discussions and advocating for policies that prioritize human rights and global stability can help ensure that diplomatic efforts are both effective and sincere.

In addition to holding leaders accountable, Americans can take actionable steps to support Ukraine and promote peace in the region. This includes advocating for increased humanitarian aid to assist those affected by the conflict and urging Congress to maintain a strong stance against Russian aggression through sanctions and diplomatic pressure. Grassroots organizations and advocacy groups play a crucial role in mobilizing public opinion and influencing policymakers. By participating in campaigns that promote solidarity with Ukraine, citizens can help amplify the voices of those who are directly impacted by the conflict and work towards a more peaceful resolution.

Furthermore, education and awareness are powerful tools in shaping public discourse around international relations. Engaging in discussions about the historical context of the conflict and the implications of foreign intervention can foster a more nuanced understanding of the issues at hand. By sharing knowledge and resources, individuals can empower their communities to take a more active role in international affairs. Educational initiatives that focus on global citizenship and the responsibilities that come with it can inspire a generation that is informed, empathetic, and willing to advocate for justice on a global scale.

In conclusion, the recent developments surrounding Trump’s engagement with Zelenskiy and NATO leaders serve as a critical reminder of the complexities of foreign policy and the importance of active citizenship. As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, it is essential for Americans to remain informed, hold leaders accountable, and advocate for policies that reflect a commitment to peace and justice. By doing so, we can contribute to a future where diplomatic efforts are not only productive in rhetoric but also result in tangible benefits for those affected by conflict, particularly in Ukraine.

To Do:

In light of the recent developments regarding U.S. foreign policy in relation to Ukraine and Russia, as highlighted in the article, there are several concrete actions individuals can undertake to influence this situation and advocate for a more humanitarian and diplomatic approach. Here’s a detailed list of ideas and actions:

### 1. Advocate for Peaceful Resolution **What to Do:** Write to your congressional representatives urging them to support diplomatic efforts for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Ukraine.

**How to Do It:** - **Who to Write To:** Your local U.S. House Representative and Senators. - **Example Contacts:** - **House of Representatives:** - Find your representative: [House.gov](https://www.house.gov) - **Senate:** - Find your senators: [Senate.gov](https://www.senate.gov)

**What to Say:** - **Sample Message:** - "Dear [Representative/Senator's Name], - I urge you to advocate for a diplomatic resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. It is essential that the U.S. prioritizes dialogue and negotiation over military escalation. Please support initiatives that promote peace and humanitarian assistance for those affected by the war. Thank you for your commitment to promoting stability and justice in global affairs."

### 2. Support Humanitarian Aid **What to Do:** Contribute to or volunteer with organizations providing aid to Ukrainians affected by the war.

**Examples:** - **Organizations to Consider:** - **Ukrainian Red Cross Society:** [redcross.org.ua](https://redcross.org.ua/en) (donate or volunteer) - **UNICEF:** [unicef.org](https://www.unicef.org) (donate specifically for children affected by the war)

### 3. Engage in Advocacy Campaigns **What to Do:** Sign and share petitions that call for an end to the conflict and support humanitarian efforts.

**Example Petitions:** - **Change.org Campaigns:** - Search for petitions related to Ukraine and support those advocating for peace and humanitarian support. **How to Find Petitions:** - Visit [Change.org](https://www.change.org) and search for "Ukraine Peace" or "Support Ukraine."

### 4. Educate and Mobilize Your Community **What to Do:** Organize or participate in community discussions or forums focusing on the situation in Ukraine.

**How to Do It:** - **Host a Meeting:** Use platforms like Zoom or local community centers to discuss the implications of U.S. foreign policy on Ukraine. - **Invite Local Experts:** Reach out to local universities or peace organizations for speakers.

### 5. Use Social Media for Advocacy **What to Do:** Leverage social media platforms to spread awareness and advocate for action related to Ukraine.

**How to Do It:** - **Create Informative Posts:** Share articles, infographics, and personal insights about the conflict and humanitarian needs. - **Engage with Hashtags:** Use tags like #StandWithUkraine, #PeaceForUkraine, and #HumanitarianAid to reach a broader audience.

### 6. Pressure Local and National Leaders **What to Do:** Mobilize efforts to ensure local and national leaders are receptive to constituents' views on the Ukraine conflict.

**How to Do It:** - **Attend Town Halls:** Voice your concerns during public forums and ask your officials what they are doing to promote peace. - **Send Letters:** Write to local newspapers or blogs about the need for a focus on diplomacy and humanitarian support.

### 7. Continuous Learning and Dialogue **What to Do:** Stay informed about the conflict, its historical context, and current developments.

**Resources:** - **Books and Documentaries:** Read literature and watch films that provide insight into the Ukraine-Russia conflict. - **Online Courses:** Look for online courses or free webinars on international relations and peacebuilding.

By taking these steps, individuals can contribute to a broader movement advocating for peace, humanitarian support, and effective diplomatic solutions to the crisis in Ukraine. Each action, no matter how small, can collectively lead to meaningful change.


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