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US envoy says Putin agreed to security protections for Ukraine as part of Trump summit

sfgate.com -- Sunday, August 17, 2025, 9:59:13 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: U.S.–NATO Relations, Foreign Policy & International Relations, U.S.–Russia Relations
US envoy says Putin agreed to security protections for Ukraine as part of Trump summit

NEW YORK (AP) -- Special U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff said Sunday that Russian leader Vladimir Putin agreed at his summit with President Donald Trump to allow the U.S. and European allies to offer Ukraine a security guarantee resembling NATO's collective defense mandate as part of an eventual deal to end the 3 1/2-year war.

"We were able to win the following concession: That the United States could offer Article 5-like protection, which is one of the real reasons why Ukraine wants to be in NATO," he said on CNN's "State of the Union." Witkoff said it was the first time he had heard Putin agree to that.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, speaking at a news conference in Brussels with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, said that "we welcome President Trump's willingness to contribute to Article 5-like security guarantees for Ukraine. and the 'Coalition of the willing' -- including the European Union -- is ready to do its share."

Witkoff, offering some of the first details of what was discussed at Friday's summit in Alaska, said the two sides agreeing to "robust security guarantees that I would describe as game-changing." He added that Russia said that it would make a legislative commitment not to go after any additional territory in Ukraine.

Zelenskyy thanked the United States for recent signals that Washington is willing to support security guarantees for Ukraine, but said the details remained unclear.

"It is important that America agrees to work with Europe to provide security guarantees for Ukraine," he said, "But there are no details how it will work, and what America's role will be, Europe's role will be and what the EU can do, and this is our main task, we need security to work in practice like Article 5 of NATO, and we consider EU accession to be part of the security guarantees."

Witkoff defended Trump's decision to abandon his push for Russian to agree to an immediate ceasefire, saying the president had pivoted toward a peace deal because so much progress was made.

"We covered almost all the other issues necessary for a peace deal," Witkoff said, without elaborating.

"We began to see some moderation in the way they're thinking about getting to a final peace deal," he said.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio insisted there would be "additional consequences" as Trump warned before meeting with Putin, if they failed to reach a ceasefire. But Rubio noted that there wasn't going to be any sort of deal on a truce reached when Ukraine wasn't at the talks.

"Now, ultimately, if there isn't a peace agreement, if there isn't an end of this war, the president's been clear, there are going to be consequences," Rubio said on ABC's "This Week." "But we're trying to avoid that. And the way we're trying to avoid those consequences is with an even better consequence, which is peace, the end of hostilities."

He also said "we're not at the precipice of a peace agreement" and that getting there would not be easy and would take a lot of work.

"We made progress in the sense that we identified potential areas of agreement, but there remains some big areas of disagreement. So we're still a long ways off," Rubio said.

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Opinion:

The recent revelations surrounding the summit between President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin highlight the complexities of geopolitics and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Special envoy Steve Witkoff's assertion that Putin has agreed to security protections for Ukraine, resembling NATO's Article 5 collective defense mandate, presents a pivotal moment in U.S.-Russia relations as well as the West's approach to Eastern Europe. As we analyze these developments, it is crucial to situate them within a broader historical and political context, particularly considering the implications for Ukrainian sovereignty and the enduring struggle against imperialism and authoritarianism.

Historically, Ukraine has been at the crossroads of East and West, with its territorial integrity undermined by external powers. The annexation of Crimea by Russia in 2014 marked a significant escalation in the conflict, one that has roots in Ukraine's tumultuous relationship with both Russia and the West. The notion of security guarantees, reminiscent of NATO's Article 5, raises questions about the efficacy and sincerity of such commitments. While the idea of a “Coalition of the Willing,” as mentioned by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, signals a unified front among Western allies, it also risks being perceived as a hollow assurance if not backed by concrete action. The historical precedent of empty promises to nations threatened by aggression should not be dismissed lightly; commitments must translate into meaningful support to empower Ukraine in its defense against ongoing hostilities.

The ongoing war in Ukraine is not just a regional issue; it is emblematic of a larger struggle against authoritarianism. The notion that a peace deal is "game-changing," as Witkoff suggests, must be scrutinized against the backdrop of the global rise of autocratic regimes. The current geopolitical climate necessitates a robust response to the threats posed by such powers, and any agreement that falls short of ensuring genuine security for Ukraine could embolden further aggression. The implications of the summit extend beyond military commitments; they touch on the broader principles of democracy and self-determination that underpin Western values. For many Ukrainians, the desire for NATO membership is closely tied to their aspiration for a democratic future free from Russian influence. Thus, any security guarantees must also encompass the political will to support Ukraine's sovereignty and democratic aspirations.

Moreover, the emphasis on the need for "details" in the security arrangements, as highlighted by President Zelenskyy, underscores the inadequacies of vague assurances in international relations. The complexities surrounding security guarantees and the roles of both the U.S. and European allies must be clearly articulated and action-oriented. The failure to provide practical measures and a coherent strategy could lead to a precarious situation for Ukraine, potentially leaving it vulnerable to renewed aggression from Russia. This is a reminder of the ongoing social struggle faced by nations striving for independence and stability in the face of imperial designs.

The interplay of domestic politics in the U.S. also plays a crucial role in shaping the narrative surrounding Ukraine. The comments made by Secretary of State Marco Rubio about the "additional consequences" if a peace agreement is not reached illustrate the political maneuvering that often accompanies foreign policy. The framing of consequences as a deterrent is a familiar tactic, yet it is imperative to recognize that real peace cannot be achieved through threats alone. The U.S. must prioritize diplomacy and genuine engagement with Ukraine to foster a sustainable resolution to the conflict. A focus on dialogue and mutual understanding, rather than coercive measures, could pave the way for a lasting peace that respects the autonomy of Ukraine.

In conclusion, the dynamics surrounding the Trump-Putin summit and the discussions about security guarantees for Ukraine reflect a critical juncture in international relations. As we navigate these complex issues, it is essential to remain vigilant and engaged in advocating for policies that uphold the principles of democracy and self-determination. The lessons of history remind us that the struggle for sovereignty and security is ongoing, and it is the responsibility of advocates for social justice to ensure that the voices of those fighting for their rights are heard and prioritized in the discourse on global security. The future of Ukraine and its ability to chart its own course depends on the commitment of the international community to support its fight against oppression and to foster a more just and equitable world.

Action:

The recent developments regarding the proposed security guarantees for Ukraine, as articulated by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, offer a critical lens through which we can examine not only international relations but also the evolving dynamics of power in the post-Cold War era. The discussions held during the summit between President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin may signal a potential shift in the geopolitical landscape, one that could either foster stability or exacerbate existing tensions. Understanding this context is essential for evaluating the implications for Ukraine and the broader region.

Historically, Ukraine has been at the crossroads of East-West tensions, with its sovereignty repeatedly challenged since the dissolution of the Soviet Union. The annexation of Crimea by Russia in 2014 and the ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine have led to widespread humanitarian crises and political instability. The international community, particularly NATO and the European Union, has grappled with how to respond effectively to these challenges. The idea of providing Ukraine with security guarantees akin to NATO’s Article 5—where an attack on one member is considered an attack on all—is a significant development that could potentially deter further aggression from Russia. However, it also raises questions about the feasibility and sincerity of such commitments in the absence of a clear and actionable plan.

The statement from President Zelenskyy underscores the importance of clarity and detail in any agreement. While the notion of "Article 5-like" protections is promising, it hinges on the execution of these guarantees and the roles that the U.S. and Europe will play. This uncertainty should prompt a broader public discourse on the responsibilities that come with such commitments. As citizens, advocating for a robust and transparent foreign policy that prioritizes diplomatic engagement, rather than military escalation, is paramount. We must hold our leaders accountable to ensure that any security guarantees come with a comprehensive strategy that prioritizes the sovereignty of nations and the protection of human rights.

Moreover, the recent summit raises ethical considerations regarding the prioritization of political expediency over humanitarian concerns. Witkoff's comments suggest a willingness to overlook immediate ceasefire agreements in favor of a long-term peace deal, which may inadvertently prolong the suffering of those directly affected by the conflict. This underscores the need for a more humanitarian-focused approach to foreign policy—one that emphasizes negotiation and dialogue, rather than mere political bargaining. Engaging with grassroots organizations that advocate for peace and humanitarian aid in Ukraine can be a powerful way to influence policy and highlight the human costs of geopolitical decisions.

Finally, as we consider the implications of this summit, it is essential to engage in informed discussions about the broader consequences of U.S.-Russia relations. The complexities of these geopolitical dynamics require that citizens not only stay informed but also actively participate in the political process. This can mean calling representatives, participating in town hall meetings, or supporting advocacy groups that focus on peace-building initiatives. By fostering a culture of informed engagement, we can push for policies that prioritize diplomacy and conflict resolution, ultimately working towards a more peaceful and equitable world. It is through collective action and sustained advocacy that we can contribute to a future that respects the sovereignty of nations like Ukraine while ensuring the safety and well-being of their citizens.

To Do:

In light of the news article discussing the recent summit between U.S. President Trump and Russian President Putin regarding security guarantees for Ukraine, there are several actions that concerned individuals can take to advocate for peace and support Ukrainian sovereignty. Here is a detailed list of ideas and actions:

### What Can We Personally Do About This?

1. **Stay Informed**: Educate yourself and others about the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the historical context, and the implications of international agreements. Share articles, books, and resources to raise awareness.

2. **Engage in Advocacy**: Use your voice to advocate for policies that support peace efforts and provide security guarantees to Ukraine. This can involve writing letters, making phone calls, and participating in rallies.

3. **Support Humanitarian Efforts**: Contribute to organizations providing aid to those affected by the conflict. This can be financial support or volunteering time and resources.

4. **Encourage Diplomatic Solutions**: Promote dialogue and negotiation over military solutions. This includes urging policymakers to prioritize diplomacy in resolving the conflict.

### Exact Actions We Can Personally Take

1. **Sign Petitions**: - **"Support Ukraine's Sovereignty" Petition**: Find petitions on platforms like Change.org that call for the U.S. government to provide security guarantees to Ukraine. Share these petitions within your networks. - **Example**: [Petition for U.S. Support of Ukraine](https://www.change.org/p/support-ukraine-s-sovereignty)

2. **Write to Elected Officials**: - **Contact Your Senators and Representatives**: Write letters or emails urging them to support strong security guarantees for Ukraine and to engage in diplomatic efforts. - **Example Contacts**: - **Senator Chuck Schumer** (NY) - Email: schumer.senate.gov/contact - Address: 322 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510 - **Senator Mitch McConnell** (KY) - Email: mcconnell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/contact - Address: 317 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510 - **Representative Nancy Pelosi** (CA) - Email: pelosi.house.gov/contact - Address: 1236 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515

3. **Connect with Advocacy Groups**: - Join organizations that focus on peacebuilding and support for Ukraine. Examples include: - **Ukrainian American National Association (UANA)** - [Contact Page](https://uana.org/contact) - **Amnesty International** - Work with local chapters to promote human rights and peace. 4. **Participate in Local Events**: - Attend town halls, peace marches, or discussions focused on Ukraine. Engage with community leaders and express your concerns regarding U.S. policies.

5. **Utilize Social Media**: - Raise awareness on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Use hashtags like #StandWithUkraine and #PeaceForUkraine to connect with broader movements.

6. **Educate and Mobilize**: - Host community discussions or workshops to inform others about the situation in Ukraine and mobilize collective action.

### What to Say

When contacting officials or participating in discussions, consider the following points:

- **Emphasize the Importance of Sovereignty**: "I urge you to support measures that ensure Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Security guarantees are crucial for regional stability."

- **Call for Humanitarian Support**: "It is essential that the U.S. not only provides military support but also humanitarian aid to those affected by the conflict."

- **Promote Diplomatic Solutions**: "I believe that we must prioritize diplomatic resolutions to end hostilities in Ukraine. Engaging in dialogue is the path to lasting peace."

- **Highlight the Role of Allies**: "We must work with our European allies to formulate a comprehensive approach to Ukraine's security, ensuring that they are included in the discussions."

By taking these actions, we can collectively advocate for a more peaceful and secure future for Ukraine while holding our leaders accountable for their commitments.


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