On August 13, two days remain until the highly anticipated summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. Western media consider holding such a meeting a major error by the US President, though the White House refrains from direct comments. Republican Party representatives insist Trump is not making concessions, but simply wants to personally assess Putin's intentions regarding the war.
The summit aims to discuss the possibility of starting negotiations on ending or freezing the war. Russia has already signaled Ukraine, particularly to Volodymyr Zelensky, as part of these plans. In recent days, the scale of attacks on Ukrainian territory has decreased—a demonstrative gesture from Russia ahead of the upcoming talks.
On the night of August 13, Ukrainian drones attacked oil refineries in Russia's Volgograd and Krasnodar regions and an oil pumping station in the Bryansk region. Due to the attacks, a local airport was temporarily closed and flights were cancelled. Infrastructure, including the Druzhba oil pipeline that transports Russian oil through Ukraine, sustained damage.
Meanwhile, Russia launched fresh attacks on Ukraine's Donetsk, Sumy, Chernihiv, and Poltava regions using Shahed-type drones and ballistic missiles. Ukrainian air defense intercepted most of them, but some strikes were successful.
The upcoming agenda includes an online meeting of EU, Ukrainian and US leaders to coordinate positions before the summit. Zelensky is in Germany preparing for talks with Chancellor Merz. US Senator Marco Rubio stated that the Alaska meeting is not a Kremlin victory but reflects Trump’s desire to independently assess the situation.
European media and analysts warn that for Putin, the summit signals a break from isolation and recognition of Russia's status. There are also concerns that decisions on Ukraine could be made without its participation, contrary to Kyiv's longstanding stance.
Beyond politics, Russia’s real estate market is facing a downturn: in the first seven months, 23% fewer new apartments were sold, indicating domestic economic challenges.
Ukrainian authorities stress the need for unified positions with European and US partners. There is a constant balance between political statements, allied support, and the search for effective ways to influence the war's progression.
Further details and outcomes of the summit are expected in the coming days.
