Post by : Meena Ariff

In a moment that captured the attention of the world, Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump met in Alaska for a summit that could reshape the course of the war in Ukraine and influence global politics for years to come.

The meeting was not just about political discussions. It was full of dramatic images, symbolism, and gestures that carried deep meaning. Observers around the globe described it as one of the most significant encounters between the two leaders in recent years. Many believe Putin came out with several major wins, while Trump positioned himself as a strong dealmaker who wants Ukraine to move toward ending the war.

A Warm Welcome for Putin

For a long time, Western countries had tried to keep Putin away from the international stage, portraying Russia as isolated because of the Ukraine war. But in Alaska, the situation was completely different.

Putin received a red-carpet welcome, military aircraft flew overhead in his honor, and he even rode alongside Trump in the US presidential limousine, famously called the “Big Beast.”

For Russia, these gestures carried strong symbolic value. Russian officials proudly highlighted that the world could no longer claim Moscow was cut off or excluded. “For years they said Russia was isolated,” a Russian spokeswoman remarked, “but now the red carpet is out.”

Ukraine Talks Take a New Turn

The biggest outcome of the Alaska summit centered on the Ukraine conflict.

Before the talks, Trump had made it clear that he wanted a quick ceasefire and had threatened Russia with new sanctions. He had also warned China, which buys large amounts of Russian oil, that it too could face penalties.

But after hours of discussion with Putin, Trump’s position changed. Instead of supporting a temporary truce, he agreed with Putin that negotiators should work toward a direct peace settlement. This was exactly what Moscow had been pushing for.

In Russia, the shift was celebrated widely. A popular television host wrote, “The US president’s position has changed. Now the discussion is about ending the war and shaping a new world order, exactly as Moscow wanted.”

Background: The War in Ukraine

Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, saying that Ukraine’s growing friendship with Western nations was a threat to its security. Ukraine strongly denied these claims, calling Russia’s move an attempt to seize land and control.

The war has turned into the deadliest conflict in Europe since World War II. More than one million people have been killed or wounded. Entire towns have been destroyed, millions of civilians have lost their homes, and infrastructure such as schools, hospitals, and power plants have been ruined.

No Economic Rewards for Moscow Yet

Although Putin gained ground on the diplomatic front, he did not get all the rewards he wanted.

Russia’s economy has been struggling under heavy international sanctions. Inflation has risen, trade with the West has shrunk, and many industries have been hit hard. For that reason, Putin came to Alaska with senior economic officials, including his finance minister, expecting to discuss trade, energy, Arctic projects, and technology cooperation.

But Trump was firm. He told reporters that there would be no new business or trade agreements until the Ukraine war came to an end.

That decision left Russia waiting. Trump added that sanctions on China, which has been helping to finance Moscow’s war effort, could still return in a few weeks if no progress was made.

Trump’s Pressure on Ukraine

During the talks, Trump avoided striking a deal behind the back of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. He stressed that Zelensky must be part of any agreement.

However, Trump’s words also increased pressure on Ukraine. He remarked that Ukraine had to face reality because “Russia is a very big power, and they’re not.”

Analysts believe this was a signal that Trump may push Ukraine to accept terms closer to Russia’s demands. He has already shown frustration with Zelensky in past meetings, and his patience with Ukraine’s resistance could be running out.

Putin’s Demand for Donbas

One of Putin’s main goals has been gaining complete control of the Donbas region, which includes the areas of Donetsk and Luhansk. These are industrial regions important for both economic and military reasons.

According to reports, Putin told Trump in Alaska that he would freeze the battles in Zaporizhzhia and Kherson if Ukraine agreed to give up Donetsk and Luhansk. Zelensky immediately rejected this offer.

Some reports also suggested that Trump hinted to European leaders that recognizing Donbas as Russian territory might help bring peace. This idea, however, caused alarm among Ukraine’s allies in Europe, who fear such concessions would encourage further Russian aggression.

Symbolism and Global Legitimacy for Russia

Even without a final peace plan, the Alaska summit was already a victory for Putin simply because it happened.

For years, Russia has faced accusations of committing war crimes in Ukraine, including the forced deportation of children. Putin is even wanted by the International Criminal Court. However, neither Russia nor the US recognizes its authority.

By appearing on US soil, standing beside the American president, and being treated with honors, Putin regained a degree of global legitimacy. Russian officials described the summit as a “major breakthrough” in restoring ties between Washington and Moscow.

Analysts Show Caution

Despite the positive tone in Moscow, experts outside Russia warned against overstating Putin’s success.

Yes, Russia has restarted dialogue with the US and has avoided new sanctions for now. But its economic problems remain severe. With high war expenses, growing inflation, and sanctions still biting, the Russian economy could face a recession unless major changes are made.

One European diplomat commented, “Russia has secured recognition and a seat at the table again. But with a costly war and a weak economy, these gains are limited.”

What Happens Next?

The Alaska summit has opened new doors but also left many questions unanswered. Will Ukraine accept negotiations under pressure? Will Trump keep sanctions away if progress stalls? And will Russia continue its push to capture more land in Donbas while talking about peace at the same time?

For now, Putin has succeeded in avoiding new punishments, presenting himself as a respected leader, and moving the US closer to his version of peace talks. Yet without solving Russia’s economic troubles or ending the fighting, these achievements may prove temporary.