Trump Heads to Alaska for High-Stakes Putin Summit
President Donald Trump departed for Anchorage, Alaska, where he is scheduled to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in what he described as a “high-stakes” summit aimed at resolving the Ukraine conflict and broader geopolitical issues.
Summit Timing and Setting
The one-on-one meeting is set to begin around 11 a.m. local time at Joint Base Elmendorf–Richardson and is expected to last about seven hours, including private discussions and a planned joint press briefing. This marks the first summit between the two leaders on U.S. soil in over a decade.
Delegations and Agenda
Both sides are bringing senior officials to support talks—Trump will be accompanied by key cabinet members and intelligence heads, and Putin arrives with top diplomats and economic advisers. The agenda includes discussions on ceasefire terms, sanctions relief, and strategic realignment, although expectations for a breakthrough remain cautious.
Diplomatic Stakes
The summit has drawn global attention, viewed by many as critical for European security amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. President Zelenskyy was not invited, prompting criticism that the talks may sideline Ukraine’s role in any outcome.
Tone and Outlook
Ahead of departure, Trump estimated a 75% chance of success but warned there is a 25% chance things could fall apart. He characterized the summit as a “feel-out” meeting—indicating that while optimism is high, substantive results could still be elusive.
