On August 15, Anchorage, Alaska, hosts a meeting between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. The summit is seen as potentially historic or just another meeting with no outcome. Putin is traveling from Russia, with the Russian delegation already waiting, while Trump will be present for the day.
Ukrainian drones hit the Syzran oil refinery in Russia's Samara region — a key facility for the Russian military. Attacks also targeted Yenakiieve and the Port of Olya in Astrakhan region; in the latter, a ship carrying Shahed drone parts and munitions from Iran was struck. Russia has pushed for partial ceasefire conditions, notably no air or naval attacks.
The Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War reports over 100 detainees from 32 countries (excluding Russia) are held by Ukraine, with the share of foreign POWs rising to 49% in July 2025. The largest numbers are from Central Asia, Nepal, Belarus, Sri Lanka, and others.
In Anchorage, a rally was held in support of Ukraine and against the Trump-Putin meeting. Trump claims his main goal is to achieve a full ceasefire and organize a new summit with Zelensky and Putin.
Western media highlight that Trump is seeking the Nobel Peace Prize and has made corresponding contacts. Meanwhile, according to the Washington Post, fatigue with the war is growing among the Russian elite, though few are openly opposed to Kremlin policy.
Separately, media reported talks between Israel and several countries about resettling Palestinians from Gaza. Some, including Indonesia, may accept a limited number temporarily in exchange for substantial compensation.
