Trump Aims for Territorial Gains for Ukraine in Upcoming Putin Meeting

In a recent press conference, President Donald Trump disclosed his intentions to negotiate for the return of territories occupied by Russia in Ukraine during an upcoming meeting with President Vladimir Putin.

US President Donald Trump asserted his commitment to support Ukraine by attempting to retrieve territories that have been taken by Russia. During a news conference, Trump announced that his discussions with Putin in Alaska on Friday would focus on “getting some of that territory back for Ukraine.” Emphasizing the importance of the meeting, he described it as a “feel-out meeting” during which he hopes to persuade Putin to conclude the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Trump suggested the possibility of “swapping, changes in land” as part of negotiations, as he addressed concerns around the occupation of vital territories.

In the context of fostering European relations, Trump expressed his intention to update leaders on any potential “fair deal” proposed by Putin, carefully noting that his first communication post-meeting would be with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. “I’ll call him first... I may say, ‘lots of luck, keep fighting,’ or I may say, ‘we can make a deal,’” Trump remarked.

This meeting is particularly significant as it follows Trump’s self-imposed deadline for Russia to reach a ceasefire or face increased US sanctions. Ukrainian President Zelensky has, however, voiced his concerns, asserting that any agreements formulated without Ukraine's involvement would be considered “dead decisions.” European allies have echoed the sentiment that any negotiations for peace must directly include Kyiv to be seen as legitimate.