7 dead after cloudburst, landslide in J&K's Kathua, Army choppers join rescue operations
island.lk -- Sunday, August 17, 2025, 5:58:50 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: U.S.–Russia Relations, Social Media & Public Statements, U.S.–NATO Relations
Donald Trump has said he would prefer a permanent peace agreement to end the Russia-Ukraine war over a temporary ceasefire.
Writing on Truth Social after leaving a meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin in Alaska without reaching any deal, the US president said that ceasefires "often times do not hold up".
Trump had earlier said that "great progress" was made during the meeting but "we didn't get there" when it came to a deal.
On his flight back to Washington, he held a call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who later said he would travel to Washington DC on Monday.
Trump said it had been "a great and very successful day in Alaska" after arriving back in Washington.
He added that the meeting with Putin had gone "very well", as had phone calls with Zelensky, European leaders and Nato Secretary-General Mark Rutte.
"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, and not a mere ceasefire agreement, which often times do not hold up," he wrote.
"If all works out" with Zelensky on Monday "we will then schedule a meeting with President Putin", Trump added.
Zelensky said that a "real peace must be achieved, one that will be lasting, not just another pause between Russian invasions".
Putin and Trump's arrival at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage was carefully choreographed.
The Russian president, who is facing an International Criminal Court arrest warrant for alleged war crimes in Ukraine, stepped off his jet and onto a red carpet to be warmly received by Trump.
Over the roar of a B2 bomber overhead, the two leaders posed for photos before climbing in Trump's presidential vehicle, known as The Beast.
But despite the pageantry and public shows of geniality - as well as the Kremlin's earlier estimate that the meeting could last six or seven hours - Trump and Putin emerged less than three hours later with just a joint statement to the press.
Putin said that, in order to make a "settlement lasting and long-term, we need to eliminate the root causes of the conflict" in Ukraine.
The phrasing indicated that Putin has not budged from his longstanding position that Ukraine should withdraw from four regions partially occupied by Russia - Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia - and give up its efforts to join Nato.
Zelensky has ruled out ceding territory, saying it would embolden Russia to invade again in the future, as it had in 2022 eight years after illegally annexing Crimea.
Putin also urged Ukrainians and Europeans to "not throw a wrench" into the peace process. Trump remained silent as his guest spent about eight minutes addressing the media.
After being given the floor, the US president said he had a "fantastic relationship with President Putin. Vladimir".
Even though "many points were agreed", he said, "a few" remain, adding that "one is the most significant" - without specifying. Neither took questions.
The two also did not attend the planned bilateral "working lunch" that was set to follow the talks.
Sign Our PetitionThe recent developments in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, particularly surrounding Donald Trump’s meeting with Vladimir Putin, underscore the complexity of international diplomacy and the often troubling legacies of past political decisions. The meeting, which was marked by a carefully choreographed display of camaraderie, raises critical questions about the feasibility of a lasting peace in a region rife with historical grievances and ongoing social struggles. The desire for peace is universal; however, the pathways to achieve it must be scrutinized, particularly when they risk overlooking the power imbalances and historical contexts that fuel such conflicts.
Historically, the roots of the Russia-Ukraine conflict can be traced back to a tapestry of cultural, political, and territorial disputes that have evolved over centuries. The dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 left many ethnic and national identities in a precarious position, and the subsequent annexation of Crimea by Russia in 2014 marked a significant escalation. It is crucial to recognize that the call for peace must not only aim to halt hostilities but must also address the systemic injustices and territorial occupation that have characterized this conflict. The historical precedents of territorial concessions often lead to further marginalization and aggression, as seen in the aftermath of the Munich Agreement in 1938, which emboldened Nazi Germany.
In the current context, Trump’s assertion that a permanent peace agreement is preferable to a temporary ceasefire reflects a simplistic understanding of the nuances involved. While the intention behind this statement may resonate with a desire for stability, it neglects the reality that peace cannot be built on the foundations of appeasement or the acceptance of territorial occupation. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s stance against ceding territory is not merely one of nationalism; it is a legitimate concern that conceding to Russian demands could set a dangerous precedent, inviting further aggression. We must understand that peace negotiations should include voices from those most affected, particularly marginalized communities within Ukraine, who bear the brunt of this conflict.
Moreover, the optics of Trump’s meeting with Putin—such as the warm reception and the display of mutual respect—can be misleading. It is essential to interrogate who benefits from such portrayals. For instance, the Kremlin’s insistence on addressing the "root causes" of the conflict often veils its own aggressive actions and historical grievances against Ukraine. Meanwhile, Trump's overtures toward Putin may serve to bolster his political narrative at home, appealing to certain voter bases that prioritize isolationist policies. This raises the question of how domestic politics often influences foreign policy decisions and the implications this has for global peace efforts.
The need for a reimagined approach to diplomacy is paramount. A lasting peace must be rooted in principles of justice, accountability, and recognition of historical grievances. The international community, particularly the West, must navigate these complex dynamics with a nuanced understanding of the historical and social contexts that shape the current landscape. As advocates for social justice, we must engage in conversations that highlight the importance of including diverse voices in peace negotiations and advocating for reparative justice. Ultimately, peace is not achieved merely by silencing the guns; it requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying injustices and empowers those who have been historically marginalized.
In conclusion, the ongoing discussions around the Russia-Ukraine conflict, particularly in light of recent high-profile meetings and statements, should be viewed through a critical lens that considers historical context and the broader implications of proposed solutions. It is essential to advocate for a peace that not only ends hostilities but also promotes justice, accountability, and the dignity of all affected communities. In doing so, we can challenge narratives that seek to simplify complex geopolitical issues and instead cultivate a deeper understanding of the social struggles at play, ensuring that we do not repeat the mistakes of the past in our pursuit of a better future.
The recent developments surrounding the meeting between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin offer a vivid illustration of the complexities of international diplomacy and the challenges faced by the United States in addressing global conflicts. The backdrop of this meeting is not only a war that has ravaged Ukraine but also a historical tapestry of U.S.-Russia relations that has been fraught with tension and mistrust. The fact that Trump advocates for a permanent peace agreement rather than a temporary ceasefire raises a number of critical issues that merit deeper examination, particularly in light of the implications for our national and global security.
Historically, ceasefires have often been viewed with skepticism, particularly in prolonged conflicts where entrenched positions exist. The situation in Ukraine is emblematic of this, as evidenced by Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the ongoing conflicts in the Donbas region. Indeed, Trump's assertion that ceasefires “do not hold up” resonates with a long history of temporary truces failing to provide a sustainable resolution to underlying disputes. Yet, this view must be carefully scrutinized, as it risks oversimplifying complex geopolitical dynamics. Effective peace negotiations require more than just the cessation of hostilities; they necessitate addressing the root causes of conflict, which Trump and Putin's meeting seemingly skirted.
For Americans, the question of how to engage with these developments is paramount. While Trump's overtures towards a peace agreement may appear conciliatory, they also risk legitimizing Putin's territorial ambitions and undermining Ukraine's sovereignty. As citizens, we must advocate for a nuanced understanding of the conflict, recognizing that genuine resolutions demand accountability for aggression. This means supporting policies that both hold Russia accountable for its actions and promote genuine dialogue that respects Ukraine's territorial integrity. Encouraging our representatives to prioritize diplomatic solutions that include Ukrainian voices and perspectives will be essential in shaping a response that is both principled and pragmatic.
Moreover, the meeting's choreography—marked by the pageantry of a red carpet welcome—speaks volumes about the optics of power on the international stage. It is crucial to remember that such displays can obscure the realities faced by those on the ground in conflict zones. The humanitarian impact of the Ukraine war should remain at the forefront of our discussions. Advocacy for humanitarian aid, support for refugees, and initiatives that foster peacebuilding within Ukraine are vital actions we can take as a society. By approaching the situation with empathy and understanding of its human toll, we can counter narratives that prioritize political expediency over human rights.
Ultimately, the conversation about peace in Ukraine should extend beyond the rhetoric of powerful leaders. It is imperative for Americans to engage with the complexities of the situation and to push for a foreign policy that emphasizes diplomacy and international cooperation over militarism. Encouraging grassroots movements, participating in town hall discussions, and leveraging social media to raise awareness about the ongoing humanitarian crisis can amplify the call for a just and lasting peace. As we navigate these turbulent waters, we must remember that the pursuit of peace is not merely about avoiding conflict; it is about fostering justice, equity, and respect for the sovereignty of nations. By advocating for a comprehensive approach to peace that prioritizes the voices of those most affected, we can contribute to a future that moves beyond the cycle of violence and seeks true reconciliation.
Analyzing the situation surrounding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the recent meeting between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, and the humanitarian crises resulting from natural disasters like the cloudburst in J&K's Kathua, we must consider actionable steps that individuals can take to advocate for peace, humanitarian aid, and social justice. Here’s a detailed list of ideas concerning what we can personally do about these issues:
### Personal Actions for Advocacy and Aid
1. **Educate Yourself and Others**: - Stay informed about the Ukraine conflict, its history, and current developments. Share information through social media platforms and community discussions to raise awareness about the importance of peace negotiations over temporary solutions. - Recommended Reading: "The Ukraine Crisis: What It Means for the West" by Andrew Wilson.
2. **Support Humanitarian Organizations**: - Contribute to organizations providing aid to victims of war and natural disasters. For instance, donations to the International Red Cross or local NGOs in Ukraine and J&K can have a significant impact. - Example Organizations: - **International Red Cross**: [Donate Here](https://www.redcross.org/donate) - **Doctors Without Borders**: [Donate Here](https://www.doctorswithoutborders.org/donate)
3. **Sign and Share Petitions**: - Start or sign petitions that push for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Ukraine. Websites like Change.org or MoveOn.org can be platforms to promote these petitions. - Sample Petition Title: "Demand a Peace Treaty for Ukraine" (create a petition on Change.org).
4. **Contact Local Representatives**: - Write to your elected officials urging them to support diplomatic efforts for a long-lasting peace in Ukraine. Use the following template to guide your correspondence: - **Sample Letter**: ``` Dear [Representative's Name], I am writing to express my concern regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. It is imperative that the United States actively supports diplomatic efforts to establish a long-lasting peace agreement rather than temporary ceasefires. I urge you to advocate for policies that prioritize humanitarian aid and diplomatic negotiations in order to prevent further loss of life and ensure stability in the region. Thank you for your attention to this pressing issue. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Email] ```
5. **Participate in Local Advocacy Groups**: - Join or support local peace and humanitarian organizations that are actively working on related issues. Examples include: - **Peace Action**: [Get Involved](https://www.peaceaction.org) - **Amnesty International**: [Join a Local Group](https://www.amnesty.org/en/get-involved/join-a-local-group/)
6. **Engage in Community Education**: - Organize or participate in community events, workshops, or forums that educate the public about the implications of war and the importance of humanitarian support. Invite speakers who are knowledgeable about international relations or conflict resolution.
7. **Utilize Social Media for Awareness**: - Use platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to spread awareness about the need for a permanent peace agreement in Ukraine. Share informative graphics, news articles, and personal reflections on the importance of peace.
8. **Contact International Bodies**: - Write to international organizations urging them to take a stronger stance on peace negotiations in Ukraine. For example: - **United Nations Headquarters**, 760 United Nations Plaza, New York, NY 10017, USA - Email: [info@un.org](mailto:info@un.org)
9. **Advocate for Local Disaster Preparedness**: - In light of natural disasters like the cloudburst in J&K, advocate for local policies that improve disaster preparedness and response. Attend town hall meetings and engage with local leaders about the importance of infrastructure that can withstand extreme weather conditions.
10. **Support Local Efforts in Affected Areas**: - Connect with organizations that are working directly in disaster-affected regions to provide aid. Consider volunteering your time or resources to help those in need.
By taking these actionable steps, individuals can contribute to meaningful change both regarding the conflict in Ukraine and the humanitarian crises stemming from natural disasters. Engaging with community efforts, supporting humanitarian aid, and advocating for peace can collectively lead to positive outcomes.