Trump vows not to be intimidated ahead of Putin summit | News
bssnews.net -- Thursday, August 14, 2025, 11:34:45 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: U.S.–Russia Relations, Foreign Policy & International Relations, U.S. Elections & Voting Rights
ANCHORAGE, Aug 15, 2025 (BSS/AFP) - US President Donald Trump insisted Thursday he would not be intimidated by Russian leader Vladimir Putin on the eve of a high-stakes summit and said Ukraine would be involved in any deal on its fate.
Putin flies to Alaska on Friday at the invitation of Trump in his first visit to a Western country since he ordered the 2022 invasion of Ukraine that has killed tens of thousands of people.
As Russia made gains on the battlefield, the Kremlin said the two presidents planned to meet one-on-one, heightening fears of European leaders that Putin will cajole Trump into a settlement imposed on Kyiv.
Trump insisted to reporters at the White House: "I am president, and he's not going to mess around with me."
"I'll know within the first two minutes, three minutes, four minutes or five minutes... whether or not we're going to have a good meeting or a bad meeting," Trump said.
"And if it's a bad meeting, it'll end very quickly, and if it's a good meeting, we're going to end up getting peace in the pretty near future," said Trump, who gave the summit a one in four chance of failure.
Trump has voiced admiration for Putin in the past and faced wide criticism after a 2018 summit in Helsinki where he appeared to accept the Russian's denials of US intelligence on Moscow's meddling in US elections.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was not invited to the Alaska summit, which he has denounced as a reward to Putin, and has refused Trump's calls to surrender territory.
Trump promised not to finalize any deal with Putin alone and said he hoped to hold a three-way summit with Zelensky, possibly immediately afterwards in Alaska.
"The second meeting is going to be very, very important, because that's going to be a meeting where they make a deal. And I don't want to use the word 'divvy' things up. But you know, to a certain extent, it's not a bad term," Trump told Fox News Radio.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters any future deal needed also to ensure "security guarantees" for Ukraine.
But Trump has previously backed Russia's stance in ruling out NATO membership for Ukraine.
- Shifting Trump tone -
Trump had boasted that he could end the war within 24 hours of returning to the White House in January.
But his calls to Putin -- and intense pressure on Zelensky to accept concessions -- have failed to move the Russian leader and Trump has warned of "very severe consequences" if Putin keeps snubbing his overtures.
The talks are set to begin at 11:30 am (1930 GMT) Friday at the Elmendorf Air Force Base, a major US military installation in Alaska that has been crucial in monitoring Russia.
Zelensky met in London with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who vowed solidarity, a day after receiving support in Berlin.
Russia has made major gains on the ground ahead of the summit.
Ukraine on Thursday issued a mandatory evacuation of families with children from the eastern town of Druzhkivka and four nearby villages near an area where Russia made a swift breakthrough.
- Mixed views on diplomacy -
Diplomacy since Russia's invasion has largely failed to secure agreements beyond swaps of prisoners.
Russia said Thursday it had returned 84 prisoners to Ukraine in exchange for an equal number of Russian POWs.
The war has proved divisive in the United States, with a Pew Research Center poll finding that 59 percent of Americans lacked confidence in Trump's wisdom on the issue.
Anchorage, nestled under mountains, bore few indications it was the center of global attention except for signs denouncing Putin put up on downtown streets, where people gave mixed opinions of the summit.
"I think it's a travesty to invite a war criminal like Putin to the United States. My primary concern is that he's going to negotiate away everything and it's not going to be possible to have a peaceful solution," said Jay Ahuja, 62, a retiree from North Carolina.
But Kimberly Brown, a 63-year-old retiree from Ohio, said Alaska was a "perfect place" for the summit.
"I just think that Trump is the best person to negotiate world peace."
Sign Our PetitionThe recent announcement of a summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin has sparked a wave of concern and skepticism, particularly regarding the implications for Ukraine. The backdrop of this meeting, set against the ongoing conflict that has devastated Ukraine since Russia's invasion in 2022, raises critical questions about the motivations behind such high-stakes diplomacy. This summit, the first of its kind for Putin in a Western nation since the invasion began, underscores the complexities of international relations and the potential dangers of negotiating peace without the direct involvement of affected parties.
Historically, the relationship between the U.S. and Russia has been marked by tension, particularly since the end of the Cold War. The emergence of Putin as a significant global player has only intensified these tensions, with his actions in Ukraine serving as a stark reminder of the geopolitical stakes. This summit comes at a time when Russia has made notable territorial gains in Ukraine, raising fears among European allies that Trump may seek a quick resolution that does not fully account for Ukraine’s sovereignty or the sacrifices made by its people. The absence of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky from the meeting is particularly troubling, suggesting that the voices of those most impacted by this conflict may be sidelined in favor of a bilateral agreement that could overlook critical human rights and self-determination issues.
In his statements leading up to the summit, Trump has oscillated between bravado and a seemingly naive optimism about the potential for peace. His claim that he could resolve the conflict within 24 hours upon re-entering the White House speaks volumes about the simplistic and often reductionist views that can dominate discussions about complex geopolitical crises. The idea of "divvying up" territory, as Trump casually mentioned, highlights a dangerous approach to conflict resolution that risks treating the lives and aspirations of millions as mere bargaining chips in a game of realpolitik. This perspective is not only dismissive of the human cost of the war but also reflects a historical pattern where powerful nations negotiate the fates of less powerful ones without their consent or participation.
The political implications of this summit extend beyond Ukraine, touching on broader themes of democratic integrity and international accountability. Trump's previous admiration for Putin, alongside his past behavior that appeared to align with Russian interests, raises concerns about the motivations driving U.S. foreign policy under his leadership. The potential for a settlement that prioritizes expediency over justice could embolden authoritarian regimes globally, undermining decades of progress made in promoting democratic governance and human rights. This meeting is not merely about Trump and Putin; it reflects a larger struggle between autocratic and democratic values in the international arena.
As citizens and advocates, it is essential to remain vigilant and informed as these events unfold. The stakes are high, and the consequences of this summit will reverberate far beyond the immediate outcomes of the negotiations. Engaging in conversations that emphasize the importance of Ukrainian sovereignty, the necessity of inclusive diplomacy, and the historical context of U.S.-Russia relations can help shape a narrative that prioritizes justice and accountability. It is crucial to advocate for a foreign policy that recognizes the rights of nations to self-determination and that seeks to hold leaders accountable for their actions on the global stage. In doing so, we honor the sacrifices made by the people of Ukraine and stand firm against the tide of authoritarianism that threatens democratic values worldwide.
The recent summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin has reignited a crucial debate about the implications of U.S. foreign policy toward Russia and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The backdrop of this meeting is vital for understanding the complexities of international relations and the potential consequences for those most affected by these geopolitical maneuverings. As Ukraine continues to endure the tragic fallout from Russia's 2022 invasion, it is imperative for Americans to engage critically with the narrative surrounding these high-stakes discussions. The historical context of U.S.-Russia relations, the motivations of both leaders, and the broader implications for democracy and human rights are all areas that warrant deep reflection and, importantly, action.
Historically, the U.S. has oscillated between confrontation and cooperation with Russia, with each approach yielding mixed results. Trump’s earlier presidency was marked by a controversial embrace of Putin, often viewed as an undermining of democratic norms and alliances, particularly with NATO. The Helsinki summit in 2018, where Trump appeared to accept Putin's denials of interference in U.S. elections, remains a significant point of contention. The 2025 summit in Alaska, occurring in the wake of ongoing Russian aggression in Ukraine, represents a troubling continuation of this trend. By sidelining Ukrainian President Zelensky, Trump risks legitimizing Putin’s actions and further eroding the sovereignty of Ukraine, which has already suffered immense human and territorial losses.
The rhetoric surrounding the summit, with Trump’s insistence that he would not be intimidated by Putin, raises critical questions about the effectiveness of such meetings. The idea that any substantial progress can be made without the direct involvement of Ukraine illustrates a significant disconnect from the realities on the ground. It is crucial to understand that any negotiations that disregard the voices of those most affected are inherently flawed. Trump's statement that he may "divvy things up" reflects a troubling transactional approach to international diplomacy, one that risks prioritizing political expediency over humanitarian considerations. This perspective should alarm all who value the principles of self-determination and respect for international law.
As Americans, it is vital that we take active measures to hold our leaders accountable and advocate for a foreign policy that prioritizes the rights and voices of those in conflict zones. One actionable step is to engage with and support organizations that amplify the voices of Ukrainian citizens and advocates. This can include contributing to humanitarian efforts, participating in awareness campaigns, and encouraging our representatives to support policies that uphold Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Additionally, fostering public discourse around the implications of U.S. foreign policy decisions can help to shift the narrative toward one that emphasizes human rights and international solidarity rather than mere geopolitical calculations.
Educational initiatives are also crucial. By informing ourselves and our communities about the historical and ongoing impacts of the Ukraine conflict, we can cultivate a more engaged citizenry capable of demanding accountability from our leaders. Hosting discussions, reading groups, and public forums on U.S.-Russia relations and the importance of supporting Ukraine can empower individuals to take informed actions. Furthermore, advocating for comprehensive foreign aid packages that emphasize humanitarian assistance and democratic governance in Ukraine can help counterbalance the transactional approach that often characterizes international relations.
In conclusion, the Alaska summit serves as a stark reminder of the complexities of global politics and the responsibilities we bear as citizens of a democratic nation. The stakes are high, not only for Ukraine but for the global order that seeks to uphold human rights and self-determination. By engaging critically with these developments, supporting the affected communities, and demanding a foreign policy that prioritizes justice and accountability, we can work toward a more equitable and peaceful world. The time for action is now, and it is imperative that we do not remain passive observers in this critical moment.
To address the concerns raised in the article regarding the upcoming summit between Trump and Putin, particularly in relation to Ukraine's sovereignty and security, there are several actionable steps that individuals can take to contribute to a more favorable outcome for Ukraine and to advocate for a stronger stance against Russian aggression. Here’s a detailed list of ideas and actions:
### What Can We Personally Do About This?
1. **Educate Ourselves and Others**: Stay informed about the current situation in Ukraine, the implications of U.S.-Russia relations, and the historical context of the conflict. Share this information within your communities to raise awareness.
2. **Contact Elected Officials**: Reach out to your representatives to express your stance on U.S. foreign policy concerning Ukraine, urging them to support Ukraine in any negotiations and to ensure that Ukrainian voices are included in discussions about their future.
3. **Support Advocacy Organizations**: Contribute to and volunteer for organizations that support Ukraine's sovereignty, provide humanitarian aid, and advocate against Russian aggression.
4. **Engage in Peaceful Protests**: Participate in or organize local demonstrations to raise awareness about the situation in Ukraine and advocate for a strong response to Russian actions.
5. **Sign Petitions**: Engage with online petitions that call for increased support for Ukraine, stronger sanctions against Russia, or any measures that advocate for human rights and democracy in the region.
### Exact Actions We Can Personally Take
1. **Contact Elected Officials**: - **Write to Your Senators and Representatives**: - Find your representatives using [GovTrack](https://www.govtrack.us/congress/members) or [Contacting Congress](https://www.contactingcongress.org/). - Example names to contact: - Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY): schumer.senate.gov/contact/email-chuck - Representative Nancy Pelosi (D-CA): pelosi.house.gov/contact - Example email message: ``` Subject: Support for Ukraine and Strong U.S. Foreign Policy
Dear [Senator/Representative],
As a concerned citizen, I urge you to prioritize Ukraine’s sovereignty and security in U.S. foreign policy, especially in light of the upcoming summit between President Trump and President Putin. It is crucial that any decisions made regarding Ukraine’s future include the voices of its leaders and respect the country’s territorial integrity. Please advocate for strong support for Ukraine in any negotiations.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Email] ``` - **USPS Addresses**: - Senator Chuck Schumer: 322 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510 - Representative Nancy Pelosi: 1236 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, DC 20515
2. **Sign Petitions**: - **Change.org** and **MoveOn.org** often have petitions related to Ukraine. Search for active petitions calling for support for Ukraine or against appeasement of Putin. - Example petitions: - "Support Ukraine: Stop Russian Aggression" at [Change.org](https://www.change.org). - "Call for Strong Sanctions on Russia" at [MoveOn.org](https://www.moveon.org).
3. **Support Advocacy Organizations**: - Consider donating to or volunteering with organizations such as: - **Ukrainian Congress Committee of America**: [uccla.org](https://www.ucca.org/) - They advocate for Ukrainian rights and interests. - **National Ukrainian American Coordinating Council**: [nuacc.org](https://nuacc.org/).
4. **Participate in Protests**: - Keep an eye on local activist groups and social media for announcements of protests or rallies advocating for Ukraine. Joining these events amplifies the call for U.S. support and holds leaders accountable.
5. **Use Social Media**: - Use platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to share information, raise awareness, and urge others to take action. Tag your representatives in posts to amplify your message.
By engaging in these actions, individuals can contribute to a stronger, unified stance in support of Ukraine and help to ensure that their voices are heard in critical international discussions.