The historic meeting between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, held on August 15, 2025, in Anchorage, Alaska, concluded without binding agreements to halt the advance of the war in Ukraine. Despite the ceremonial display and cordial atmosphere, the summit left Europe expectant, with no real diplomatic progress, and under the shadow of a symbolic victory for Russia.
The most high-profile bilateral encounter since 2019 took place at the joint Elmendorf-Richardson Air Base in Alaska, with a carefully orchestrated staging: red carpet, aerial escort, and a shared ride in the U.S. presidential vehicle. Both leaders described the dialogue as “productive,” although no concrete deals were reached that would change the situation on the ground.
After nearly three hours of negotiations, no ceasefire or specific agreement on Ukraine was achieved. Trump suggested that channels of compromise on security and territory might open, always subject to Kyiv’s approval. Putin, however, remained firm in his demand to resolve the “root causes” of the conflict as a condition for lasting peace. For Europe, the outcome represented an image victory for the Kremlin, which consolidated its position without making concessions.
The European Union reacted with concern. EU leaders lamented the absence of Ukraine and European partners in such decisive talks, interpreting it as negotiations over Kyiv’s future without its participation. This scenario fuels fears of a bilateral diplomacy that weakens Western unity and strengthens Moscow’s impunity in its aggression.
As for immediate consequences, the summit did not alter the dynamics of the war, still marked by ongoing attacks and no signs of de-escalation. However, Putin’s mere presence on U.S. soil was seen as a diplomatic reintegration after years of isolation. Trump, meanwhile, sought to project his image as a mediator, though without tangible results. Both leaders left the door open to further talks, including a potential trilateral meeting with the Ukrainian president, whose future remains uncertain.
