Commentator Vitaly Portnikov provided analysis on the start of negotiations between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. The planes of both leaders arrived in Anchorage almost simultaneously. The protocol of the meeting created the impression of an official Russian state visit to the US.
Portnikov describes this as a diplomatic victory for Putin, ending his years-long isolation achieved through the efforts of Joe Biden’s administration. Trump’s calls to Putin had previously weakened Russia’s isolation, but six calls failed to secure a breakthrough.
Portnikov believes Trump seeks to uphold his promise to end the Russia-Ukraine war quickly, but Putin has refused any ceasefire. For both leaders, continued dialogue is vital: for Trump, as a demonstration of US authority; for Putin, as a matter of regime and economic stability.
Key factors, Portnikov notes, include the resilience of the Russian economy to sanctions and Putin's priority between eliminating Ukrainian statehood and maintaining Russia’s internal stability. He argues the key to ending the war lies solely with Putin, and neither economic pressure nor military aid alone guarantees a swift resolution.
Portnikov suggests this summit could shape the global order. He emphasizes that Putin’s decisions will be decisive and updates on the outcome of the meeting are expected soon.
