The Kremlin confirmed that Putin and Trump will meet one-on-one in Alaska late Friday morning local time, with only translators present before broader discussions. The agenda will center on ending the Ukraine war, alongside trade, economic cooperation, and global security. Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said the Russian delegation will include top ministers and sovereign wealth fund head Kirill Dmitriev. A joint press conference is planned after the summit. Trump has warned of “very severe consequences” for Russia if Putin is not serious about ending the war, while Zelenskyy insists Ukraine will not surrender territory.

Private Talks Before Wider Summit

Putin and Trump’s face-to-face will open the Alaska summit, followed by expanded negotiations and a working breakfast. The Kremlin says discussions will build on earlier contacts between Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff and Russian officials. Ushakov stressed that meeting duration will depend on the presidents, with the Russian delegation leaving immediately afterward.

Ukraine at the Center of the Agenda

Ushakov confirmed that “the settlement of the Ukrainian crisis” will be the main focus. Trump, in a recent call with European leaders and Zelenskyy, indicated willingness to offer security guarantees to Kyiv under certain conditions. However, he hinted at possible “territory swaps” — a proposal firmly rejected by Zelenskyy.

Stalemate on the Ground

The war remains locked in a stalemate, with Russia controlling about one-fifth of Ukrainian territory, including all of Luhansk, most of Donetsk, and large parts of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. Russian forces have intensified attacks with drones, glide bombs, and rockets, while Ukraine faces severe shortages of ammunition and manpower.