On August 9, preparations for a summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin were confirmed, where the issue of freezing the Russia-Ukraine war will be discussed. However, Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders oppose Putin's approach and are working on their own peace plan.
Western media report that Russia's main idea is to seek recognition of Russian-occupied territories and gradual legalization, while Ukraine insists on an immediate ceasefire and security guarantees, including steps towards NATO membership. European officials emphasize that compromising on territorial integrity is unacceptable.
Talks are taking place at the highest level—in the United Kingdom, key national security advisers from Europe, the US, and Ukraine, including US Vice President JD Vance, have gathered. Zelensky publicly declared categorical rejection of unilateral concessions to Russia, noting that Baltic states, France, and other partners support Ukraine's position.
Meanwhile, as summit preparations continue, fighting persists in Donbas, Zaporizhia, and near Kharkiv, with drone attacks causing civilian casualties. According to British intelligence, Russian forces are making no significant gains in Sumy region, and international sanctions are gradually weakening Russia's economy.
The article also covers US statements on the Middle East, Germany's stance on the arms embargo to Israel, and China's influence on the supply of rare earth minerals crucial for military production. The peace process remains uncertain, but international dialogue continues ahead of the summit in Alaska on August 15.
