On August 11, just four days remain until the potential summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. There is ongoing discussion about possible participation by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky—conservative US media report that the White House is considering the option. A representative of the German Chancellor has also stated that European leaders intend to talk with Trump ahead of the meeting.
European countries and Ukraine are making efforts to influence Trump’s position, whose advisers are said to support proposals of territorial exchange. The White House has yet to officially comment. Russian figures, such as Kirill Dmitriev, express hope that the dialogue will bring “hope, peace, and global security,” while Russian state media continue to issue radical statements, including threats of a new military operation in the South Caucasus if NATO becomes involved.
Western analysts and media have looked at possible summit scenarios, including an agreement without Ukraine’s participation—drawing parallels to the 1938 Munich Agreement. NATO and Financial Times representatives highlight the risks of unilateral moves by Russia and the US, which could force territorial concessions from Ukraine.
The White House is reportedly working on a three-way summit with Putin, Trump, and Zelensky. Conservative outlet New York Post claims any deal without Ukraine’s involvement is meaningless. Press coverage suggests significant diplomatic pressure is being put on Trump to revise his approach ahead of the talks.
Meanwhile, the EU signals limited capacity to support Ukraine militarily or with peacekeepers, and Russia’s stock market has surged amid hopes for a frozen conflict. Simultaneously, internet and messenger control is tightening inside Russia.
President Zelensky, speaking to the Saudi leader, said Ukraine has never been closer to ending the war, but details on summit format and negotiation terms remain unclear. The summit is expected on Friday, with world leaders continuing to seek pathways to peace.
