WASHINGTON, D.C. — In the aftermath of the high-stakes summit in Alaska, significant diplomatic developments are unfolding, with a major focus on the path to ending the Russia-Ukraine war. U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin met on Friday, August 15, 2025, at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, and in the hours since, an agreement has been reached for bilateral talks between the U.S. and Ukraine. This has paved the way for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to travel to Washington, D.C., as early as Monday for a meeting with President Trump.
Trump Advocates for Peace Deal Over Ceasefire
A key takeaway from the summit is President Trump’s assertion that a comprehensive peace deal, rather than a mere ceasefire, is the most effective way to end the conflict. In a statement on Truth Social, Trump explained, “It was determined by all that the best way to end the horrific war between Russia and Ukraine is to go directly to a Peace Agreement, which would end the war, and not a mere Ceasefire Agreement, which often times do not hold up.” This stance marks a shift from the calls for a ceasefire that have been championed by Kyiv and many European leaders.
Zelensky’s Imminent White House Visit
President Zelensky is set to hold talks with President Trump in Washington, D.C., on Monday. The meeting is a direct result of the discussions that took place in Alaska. Trump has also floated the possibility of a future meeting between Zelensky and Putin, stating that it could be scheduled “if all goes well.” However, the Kremlin has quickly tempered expectations, with Russian foreign affairs adviser Yuri Ushakov noting that the topic “hasn’t been touched upon yet.”
European Allies Push for Security Guarantees
Following his talks with Putin, Trump briefed European leaders and President Zelensky on the developments. During the call, European allies pressed for security guarantees for Ukraine that are similar to NATO’s Article 5 provision, which outlines the principle of collective defense. In a joint statement, European leaders expressed their support for Trump’s efforts, stating, “Leaders welcomed President Trump’s efforts to stop the killing in Ukraine, end Russia’s war of aggression, and achieve just and lasting peace.”
The statement also underscored the need for further talks, emphasizing the involvement of President Zelensky. “As President Trump said, ‘there’s no deal until there’s a deal.’ As envisioned by President Trump, the next step must now be further talks, including President Zelenskyy, whom he will meet soon,” the statement read.
For his part, Zelensky confirmed his upcoming trip to Washington and described his conversation with Trump as “long and substantive.” The initial one-on-one call with Trump was later joined by European leaders.