Trump and Putin Meet in Anchorage Amid Ukraine War Discussions

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Former President Donald Trump is currently holding a high-stakes summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Anchorage, Alaska, a significant meeting on U.S. soil. The discussions are centered on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with Trump having previously pledged a swift resolution to the war during his 2024 presidential campaign.

Speaking to reporters en route to Alaska, Trump expressed confidence in his relationship with the Russian leader, stating, “Look, he’s a smart guy. He’s been doing it for a long time, but so have I. We get along. It’s a good respect level on both sides. And I think, you know, something is going to come up.”

The two leaders commenced their talks at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson outside Anchorage at 11 a.m. Alaska Time (3 p.m. ET). White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed on Thursday that a joint press conference is scheduled to conclude the summit.

While Trump indicated a willingness to discuss business and trade, he made it clear that expanding commercial ties is contingent on a cessation of hostilities in Ukraine. “They want to do business, but they’re not doing business until we get the war solved,” he asserted. He also issued a stern warning of “severe consequences” for Putin if no progress is made on ending the conflict, emphasizing, “I’m not doing this for my health, okay. I don’t need it. I’d like to focus on our country, but I’m doing this to save a lot of lives.”

Prior to the summit, Trump held discussions with European leaders who support Ukraine. These leaders underscored the necessity of a ceasefire and security guarantees for Ukraine before any peace negotiations can commence. Trump indicated openness to providing security guarantees for Ukraine “along with Europe and other countries,” but explicitly stated this would not involve Ukraine joining NATO.

The possibility of a “land swap” between Russia and Ukraine has also been a topic of discussion for Trump, though Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has firmly opposed ceding territory, citing constitutional violations. Trump acknowledged that land exchange would be discussed with Putin, but stressed that the ultimate decision rests with Ukraine. He views today’s meeting as a precursor to broader negotiations between Putin and Zelenskyy, stating, “I’ve got to let Ukraine make that decision. And I think they’ll make a proper decision. But I’m not here to negotiate for Ukraine. I’m here to get them at a table.”

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