Following a tense summit in Alaska, U.S. President Donald Trump broke with Ukraine and key European allies by endorsing a peace plan that aligns with Russia’s demands for territorial concessions, rather than the previously proposed urgent ceasefire.
According to The New York Times, Trump told European leaders that a comprehensive peace agreement could be reached if Ukraine agreed to hand over to Russia not only occupied areas but also parts of Donbas still under Ukrainian control. In return, President Vladimir Putin offered a ceasefire and assurances of no further attacks along current frontlines.
This approach has been met with deep concern in Europe, where leaders stressed the importance of maintaining economic pressure on Moscow until its aggression ends. European officials voiced unease over Trump’s shifting stance toward Ukraine after his meeting with Putin.
Trump, however, argued that his priority is securing a lasting peace deal rather than a temporary ceasefire, insisting it would mark the true end of the war.
Meanwhile, Russia continues to demand large portions of Ukrainian territory, Ukraine’s disarmament, and a permanent block on joining NATO.
