On August 16, Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin concluded talks in Anchorage, Alaska. The summit lasted nearly three hours but brought no breakthrough toward ending the war in Ukraine. Trump personally welcomed Putin at the airport, with negotiations taking place in a three-on-three format involving key representatives from both sides.
At a joint press conference, both leaders claimed some progress but acknowledged no ceasefire deal or breakthrough on Ukraine. Trump stated he was generally pleased with the meeting, but highlighted his disappointment over the lack of a ceasefire. Putin repeated familiar narratives about "brotherly nations" and declared Russian readiness to discuss security guarantees for Ukraine.
While the summit was underway, Ukraine experienced a large-scale drone and missile attack: 85 drones and one missile targeted the country overnight, with some intercepted by air defenses but several striking infrastructure. In addition, an explosion at a gunpowder plant in Ryazan, Russia, killed at least 11 people.
After the summit, Trump gave a wide-ranging interview to Fox News, noting the absence of a formal agreement but citing some progress on security discussions. The way Putin was received in Alaska provoked mixed reactions within the US political sphere. Further bilateral consultations between the US and Russia were announced.
Western press and experts highlighted the lack of a breakthrough or concrete agreements. Peace initiatives and talks are expected to continue, while no deal on a ceasefire or security guarantees for Ukraine was reached at the summit.
