Europe to mull over plan for peace in Ukraine after Trump-Putin summit
ktbs.com -- Sunday, August 17, 2025, 12:25:17 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: U.S.–Russia Relations, Foreign Policy & International Relations, Social Media & Public Statements
Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin failed to find a ceasefire or any major breakthrough during Ukraine war talks in Alaska
Leaders of France, Germany and Britain will host a video call on Sunday for their so-called "coalition of the willing" to discuss steps towards ending the war in Ukraine, after Donald Trump dropped his push for a ceasefire after his Alaska summit with Russian leader Vladimir Putin.
Securing a ceasefire in Ukraine, more than three years after Russia's invasion, had been one of the US president's core demands before the summit, to which Ukraine and its European allies were not invited.
But after a meeting that yielded no clear breakthrough, Trump ruled out an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine -- a move that would appear to favor Putin who has long argued for negotiations on a final peace deal.
Ukraine and its European allies have criticized it as a way to buy time and press Russia's battlefield advances.
Trump spoke with Zelensky and European leaders on his flight back from Alaska to Washington, saying afterward that "it was determined by all that the best way to end the horrific war between Russia and Ukraine is to go directly to a peace agreement which would end the war."
Ceasefire agreements "often times do not hold up," Trump added on his Truth Social platform.
But Zelensky, who is due to visit Washington on Monday, appeared unconvinced by the change of tack, saying on Saturday that it "complicates the situation".
If Moscow lacks "the will to carry out a simple order to stop the strikes, it may take a lot of effort to get Russia to have the will to implement far greater -- peaceful coexistence with its neighbors for decades," he said on social media.
- 'Harsh reality' -
Trump expressed support during his call with Zelensky and European leaders for a proposal by Putin to take full control of two largely Russian-held Ukrainian regions in exchange for freezing the frontline in two others, an official briefed on the talks told AFP.
Putin "de facto demands that Ukraine leave Donbas," an area consisting of the Donetsk and Lugansk regions in eastern Ukraine, the source said.
In exchange, Russian forces would halt their offensive in the Black Sea port region of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in southern Ukraine, where the main cities are still under Ukrainian control.
Several months into its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Russia in September 2022 claimed to have annexed all four Ukrainian regions even though its troops still do not fully control any of them.
"The Ukrainian president refused to leave Donbas," the source said.
Trump notably also said the United States was prepared to provide Ukraine security guarantees, an assurance German Chancellor Friedrich Merz hailed as "significant progress."
But there was a scathing assessment of the summit outcome from the European Union's top diplomat Kaja Kallas, who accused Putin of seeking to "drag out negotiations" with no commitment to end the bloodshed.
"The harsh reality is that Russia has no intention of ending this war any time soon," Kallas said.
- Zelensky back in White House -
The main diplomatic focus now switches to Zelensky's talks at the White House on Monday.
An EU source told AFP that a number of European leaders had also been invited to attend.
The Ukrainian president's last Oval Office visit in February ended in an extraordinary shouting match, with Trump and Vice President JD Vance publicly berating Zelensky for not showing enough gratitude for US aid.
Zelensky said Saturday after a "substantive" conversation with Trump about the Alaska summit that he looked forward to his Washington visit and discussing "all of the details regarding ending the killing and the war."
In an interview with broadcaster Fox News after his sit-down with Putin, Trump had suggested that the onus was now on Zelensky to secure a peace deal as they work towards an eventual trilateral summit with Putin.
"It's really up to President Zelensky to get it done," Trump said.
- European pressure -
In an earlier statement, European leaders welcomed the plan for a Trump-Putin-Zelensky summit but added that they would maintain pressure on Russia in the absence of a ceasefire.
Meanwhile, the conflict in Ukraine raged on, with Kyiv announcing Saturday that Russia had launched 85 attack drones and a ballistic missile during the night.
Back in Moscow, Putin said his summit talks with Trump had been "timely" and "very useful."
In his post-summit statement in Alaska, Putin had warned Ukraine and European countries not to engage in any "behind-the-scenes intrigues" that could disrupt what he called "this emerging progress."
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Sign Our PetitionThe ongoing war in Ukraine has emerged as a critical flashpoint in global politics, and the recent summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin has further complicated an already fraught situation. While the summit was intended to prompt meaningful dialogue towards a ceasefire and a sustainable peace agreement, both leaders left without any clear commitments or breakthroughs. This failure not only reflects the complexities of international diplomacy but also underscores the historical context of the conflict, which is rooted in decades of geopolitical strife, national sovereignty issues, and the enduring impact of colonial legacies.
Historically, Ukraine has been a battleground for competing powers, often caught in the crossfire of Russian imperial ambitions and Western influence. Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, Ukraine's pursuit of independence and alignment with European institutions has been fraught with challenges, including political corruption, economic instability, and ongoing military threats from Russia. The annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the ongoing conflict in the Donbas region exemplify the acute vulnerabilities faced by Ukraine. Moreover, the implications of this conflict extend beyond national borders, highlighting the geopolitical struggles that have defined the post-Cold War era. Trump's recent summit with Putin, without the inclusion of Ukrainian representatives or European allies, indicates a troubling disregard for Ukraine's sovereignty and the voices of its people.
Critically, the insistence by Trump and Putin to engage in discussions that prioritize territorial concessions raises profound ethical questions about the nature of peace negotiations. The proposal to grant Russia control over the Donbas in exchange for a freeze on military aggression echoes a disconcerting historical pattern where the powerful negotiate settlements that compromise the rights and futures of smaller nations. This approach not only undermines Ukraine's right to self-determination but also could set a dangerous precedent for how international conflicts are resolved. As President Volodymyr Zelensky pointedly remarked, negotiating from a position of weakness is fraught with risks, especially when historical injustices and aggressive state behaviors are at play.
Furthermore, Trump's dismissal of a ceasefire in favor of a "peace agreement" reflects a misunderstanding of the complexities inherent in peace processes. Ceasefires can provide crucial breathing room for negotiations, allowing for humanitarian aid to enter conflict zones and fostering trust-building measures between warring parties. The suggestion that ceasefires "often do not hold up" lacks a nuanced understanding of their role in conflict resolution and the cyclical nature of violence. Indeed, the history of the region is rife with examples of how temporary truces have paved the way for more comprehensive peace agreements, demonstrating the necessity of patience and dialogue in the pursuit of lasting peace.
The implications of this summit extend beyond Ukraine, reverberating throughout Europe and the broader international community. The European leaders’ plans to convene for discussions on peace in Ukraine are a testament to the urgency of the situation and the shared commitment to addressing the crisis. However, the dynamics of the conversation must prioritize the voices of those most affected by the war—the Ukrainian people. As they face the harsh realities of ongoing violence and displacement, it is essential that any negotiations recognize their agency and aspirations for a peaceful and stable future. The role of civil society in Ukraine, including the voices of women, marginalized communities, and grassroots organizations, must be amplified in these discussions to ensure a holistic approach to peace that acknowledges the multifaceted nature of the conflict.
In conclusion, the recent summit underscores the need for a reevaluation of how peace negotiations are framed and conducted. Acknowledging the historical injustices that have shaped the current conflict, prioritizing the voices of those directly affected, and fostering an inclusive dialogue are essential steps toward achieving a sustainable peace in Ukraine. The challenges are formidable, but the stakes are extraordinarily high—not just for Ukraine, but for the principles of sovereignty, justice, and the right to self-determination that resonate across the globe. As the world watches, it is imperative that we advocate for a peace process that reflects these values and honors the dignity of all people involved.
The recent summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in Alaska has not only drawn substantial criticism but has also raised alarm bells regarding the trajectory of international diplomacy toward the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The failure to secure a ceasefire, coupled with Trump’s apparent acquiescence to Putin’s demands, highlights the precariousness of the situation and the urgent need for a reassessment of strategy not only by U.S. leaders but also by European allies. The discussion that ensued among European leaders, including France, Germany, and Britain, indicates a recognition of the necessity for a coordinated approach to peace in Ukraine, yet it also underscores the fragmentation that often characterizes international responses to crises.
Historically, diplomatic negotiations in conflicts such as the one in Ukraine have proven to be complex and riddled with challenges. The annexation of Crimea by Russia in 2014 marked a significant turning point, leading to a protracted conflict that has cost thousands of lives and displaced millions. As the U.S. grapples with its role as a global leader, the implications of Trump’s recent stance cannot be understated. His dismissal of a ceasefire as a viable solution and support for territorial concessions to Russia not only undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty but also send troubling signals about America’s commitment to democratic values and international law. This situation necessitates a broader discourse on the necessity of upholding human rights and territorial integrity in international relations.
As concerned citizens and advocates for justice, what can Americans do in response to these developments? First, it is crucial to amplify awareness and foster discussions surrounding the implications of the Alaska summit within our communities. Engaging in dialogues about the importance of supporting Ukraine against aggression not only highlights the stakes for the people of Ukraine but also reinforces the values of democracy and international solidarity. By organizing forums, writing articles, or utilizing social media platforms, we can educate ourselves and others about the historical context of the Ukraine conflict and the broader geopolitical dynamics at play.
Furthermore, advocating for a robust U.S. foreign policy that prioritizes diplomatic solutions while firmly opposing any form of territorial aggression is essential. This can be accomplished by urging our representatives to support measures that reinforce Ukraine’s defense capabilities, such as increased military aid and economic support. Engaging in grassroots movements that emphasize the need for a principled stance against authoritarianism can help build a resilient coalition committed to protecting vulnerable nations. Emphasizing diplomacy, accountability, and a commitment to international norms should be at the forefront of our advocacy efforts.
Lastly, it is imperative that we hold our leaders accountable for their actions and rhetoric regarding the Ukraine conflict. Critically evaluating the implications of Trump’s latest statements and the potential normalization of territorial concessions to aggressor states can help galvanize public opinion against appeasement strategies. By promoting transparency and demanding comprehensive strategies that prioritize peace without compromising on the rights of nations, we can create a collective force that advocates for a more just and equitable international order. In doing so, we reinforce the notion that peace is not merely the absence of conflict but a commitment to uphold justice, security, and the principles of self-determination for all nations.
In conclusion, the developments following the Trump-Putin summit serve as a critical juncture for U.S. foreign policy and international diplomacy regarding Ukraine. By uniting in advocacy for a fair and just resolution to the conflict, we can push back against narratives that favor aggression and territorial concessions. As we engage in this dialogue, it is essential to remember that the choices we make today will shape not only the future of Ukraine but also the principles of international relations for generations to come.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine is not just a distant geopolitical issue; it is a humanitarian crisis that demands our attention and action. As citizens concerned about the impact of this war on people’s lives, we can take meaningful steps to advocate for peace, support Ukraine, and hold leaders accountable. Here’s a detailed list of actions we can personally take:
### 1. Raise Awareness and Educate Others - **Action**: Share information about the conflict and its implications on social media platforms, community forums, or local events. - **Example**: Host a discussion or a webinar on the current situation in Ukraine, its historical context, and the importance of international solidarity.
### 2. Support Humanitarian Aid - **Action**: Donate to organizations providing humanitarian relief to those affected by the war. - **Examples**: - **Doctors Without Borders**: Provides medical care to those in crisis. Website: [Doctors Without Borders](https://www.doctorswithoutborders.org) - **UNICEF**: Focuses on the protection and support of children affected by the war. Website: [UNICEF](https://www.unicef.org)
### 3. Sign and Promote Petitions - **Action**: Sign petitions that call for a ceasefire, humanitarian aid, and diplomatic engagement. - **Examples**: - **Petition to the U.S. Government for Support of Peace Initiatives**: Check platforms like Change.org or MoveOn.org for relevant petitions. - **Petition to Increase Humanitarian Aid to Ukraine**: Look for specific campaigns targeting aid organizations or government bodies.
### 4. Contact Politicians and Government Officials - **Action**: Write to elected officials urging them to advocate for peace and support Ukraine. - **Who to Write To**: - **Your U.S. Senator**: Find your senator's contact information at [senate.gov](https://www.senate.gov). - **Your Representative**: Find your representative's contact information at [house.gov](https://www.house.gov).
#### Sample Contact Information: - **Senator Chuck Schumer (NY)** Email: schumer.senate.gov/contact Mailing Address: 322 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510
- **Senator Mitch McConnell (KY)** Email: mcconnell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/contactform Mailing Address: 317 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510
- **Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14)** Email: ocasiocortez.house.gov/contact Mailing Address: 150 E 123rd St, New York, NY 10035
### 5. Engage in Local Activism - **Action**: Join or support local groups advocating for peace and humanitarian efforts. - **Examples**: - Attend local rallies or vigils for Ukraine. - Participate in community service projects supporting Ukrainian refugees.
### 6. Promote Diplomatic Solutions - **Action**: Advocate for diplomatic engagement and peaceful resolutions through letters to the editor in local newspapers or by participating in public forums. - **What to Say**: Emphasize the need for negotiations that prioritize human rights and the sovereignty of Ukraine, urging leaders to seek a diplomatic resolution rather than military escalation.
### 7. Leverage Social Media - **Action**: Use platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to raise awareness and pressure leaders. - **Example**: Post consistently about the situation, tagging relevant officials and organizations to draw attention to peace efforts and humanitarian needs.
### 8. Support Ukrainian Culture and Businesses - **Action**: Promote Ukrainian artists, businesses, and cultural events in your community. - **Example**: Attend Ukrainian festivals, buy products from Ukrainian vendors, and share their stories on social media.
### Summary Each of us has the power to make a difference in the fight for peace in Ukraine. By raising awareness, supporting humanitarian efforts, advocating for political action, and engaging in local communities, we can contribute to creating a more just and peaceful world. Remember, your voice matters, and collective action can lead to significant change.