Expected as a possible turning point in the war in Ukraine, the summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin was Concluded Friday without concrete agreement. If the two leaders displayed a cordial tone, the meeting did not allow to snatch the expected ceasefire.
A shortened meeting, without questions of journalists
Announced to last seven hours, the meeting did not exceed three. After a sumptuous protocol welcome – red carpet, prolonged handshake and overview of American hunters – Trump and Putin delivered brief declarations, without taking questions.
Putin assured that he wanted to “put an end to the conflict” but by treating her “deep causes”, warning kyiv and the European Union against any “provocation”. Trump, more measured, praised an “extremely productive” meeting, believing that there was “very good chances” to reach a ceasefire, while recognizing “significant” blockages with Moscow.
“There is no agreement as long as there is no agreement,” he insisted.
An image victory for Putin
Isolated on the western scene since 2022, the Russian president has found an unexpected diplomatic scene in Alaska. Acclamations, presidential limousine “The Beast”, and supported compliments of Trump marked the day. Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, quipped on Telegram: “We were talking about isolation, and today we see the red carpet in Washington. »»
Economic exchanges despite the announcements
Trump had promised that no economic discussion would take place before advances on Ukraine. However, Putin has mentioned possible cooperation in terms of technology, space, and the exploration of the Arctic, highlighting the potential of trade and rare Russian resources.
Next meeting: Moscow?
Leaving the scene, Putin launched in English: “Next Time, in Moscow”. Trump, aware of the reactions that it could arouse, did not rule out the idea. The American president now wishes to organize a trilateral summit with Volodymyr Zelensky and NATO representatives.
Questioned by Fox News, Trump noted the meeting “10 out of 10”, while returning responsibility for the agreement to kyiv: “It is in Zelensky to conclude. »»
Read:: Trump meets Putin, Peace in Ukraine suspended from territorial concessions