At a high-level virtual meeting with European leaders, Trump warns Putin ahead of Alaska summit while Zelensky calls Russia’s stance a bluff.
Trump’s Warning Before Alaska Summit
Former US President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday, stating there will be “very severe consequences” if the Ukraine war is not halted following their planned meeting this Friday in Alaska.
French President Emmanuel Macron, speaking after a virtual meeting with Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and European leaders, confirmed that Trump is prioritising a ceasefire in the conflict.
Zelensky: ‘Putin is Bluffing’
During the same discussion, Zelensky told leaders that Putin is trying to apply pressure on all fronts in Ukraine to create an illusion of dominance.
He emphasised:
- Russia is struggling under international sanctions, despite claims they are ineffective.
- Sanctions are hurting Moscow’s war economy.
- Putin is pushing to occupy all of Ukraine but lacks genuine intent for peace.
Plans for Future Peace Talks
Macron said Trump had made it clear that territorial issues in Ukraine will be decided only by Kyiv.
Following the Alaska meeting, Trump may propose a trilateral summit involving himself, Putin, and Zelensky, potentially hosted in a neutral European country.
Europe Pushes to be Heard
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz hosted the virtual meeting to ensure Europe’s and Ukraine’s concerns are addressed before Trump’s talks with Putin.
European leaders fear that excluding Kyiv from negotiations could result in concessions favouring Moscow.
Zelensky’s Firm Stance
Ahead of the summit, Zelensky:
- Rejected Putin’s reported demand for Ukraine to withdraw from the remaining 30% of Donetsk it controls.
- Stressed Ukraine will not give up territory, calling it unconstitutional and a prelude to further Russian aggression.
- Urged allies to apply maximum pressure on Russia for an “honest peace.”
Battlefield Stakes in Donbas
Meanwhile, Russian forces are pushing toward Pokrovsk, a key city in the Donbas industrial region.
Military analysts warn that losing Pokrovsk could severely weaken Ukraine’s supply lines and hand Putin a major symbolic victory ahead of the Alaska summit.
Trump is entering the Alaska talks aiming for a ceasefire, but deep mistrust remains between Ukraine, Russia, and Europe. With battlefield dynamics shifting, the outcome of this meeting could shape the future of the war — and Europe’s security.
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