Putin Says He Reached ‘Understandings’ With Trump on Ending Ukraine War

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that he reached “understandings” with former US President Donald Trump over a potential end to the war in Ukraine during their meeting in Alaska last month. However, he did not clarify whether he would engage in peace talks with Ukrainian President Zelensky, as Trump reportedly set a Monday deadline for a response.

Speaking at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in China, Putin blamed Western nations for the crisis, reiterated his opposition to Ukraine joining NATO, and defended Russia’s invasion. He thanked China and India for supporting efforts to resolve the conflict, describing the Alaska talks as a potential step toward peace.

US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff mentioned that Putin had agreed to security guarantees for Ukraine, though Moscow has yet to confirm this. Western leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and President Zelensky, remain skeptical, warning that Russia may delay or reject proposals.

Despite diplomatic efforts, Russian attacks on Ukraine continue, including a massive drone and missile strike on Kyiv that killed 23 people. Security guarantees, territorial issues, and ongoing military operations continue to complicate prospects for a ceasefire or peace deal.