The much-anticipated meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin ended Friday without an agreement on a ceasefire in Ukraine, despite both leaders suggesting that “progress” had been made.
After nearly three hours of closed-door talks in Anchorage, the two presidents issued brief statements but declined to take questions from the hundreds of reporters present. “There’s no deal until there’s a deal,” Trump said, admitting that while discussions were “constructive,” no tangible outcome was reached.
Putin, who opened the joint appearance with lengthy remarks, reiterated Moscow’s stance that peace could only come with the removal of what he called the “root causes” of the conflict. Observers interpreted this as a signal that the Kremlin remains committed to its original objectives in Ukraine, including weakening the country’s sovereignty.
For Ukraine, the stalemate brought mixed feelings. Officials in Kyiv expressed relief that no settlement was announced that might have forced territorial concessions, but they remain wary of Russia’s continued military aggression.
The meeting, held on American soil but in a location once described by Russian officials as “Russian America,” was seen by many as a symbolic stage for Putin. Analysts noted that Trump, who has branded himself as a dealmaker, left Alaska without either a peace agreement or a clear path forward.
Trump has previously threatened tougher sanctions if Russia fails to move toward a ceasefire. However, in a subsequent Fox News interview, he offered only vague assurances, saying he might consider new measures “in two weeks, three weeks.”
European allies and Ukrainian officials may take comfort that Trump avoided any unilateral concessions, but the absence of concrete results is likely to raise doubts about Washington’s ability to influence Moscow.
For now, the war in Ukraine continues, with both sides preparing for further fighting amid uncertainty about whether another summit, possibly involving Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky – will materialize.
