U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin concluded high-stakes talks in Alaska on Friday without reaching an agreement to resolve the Ukraine conflict, though both leaders described the discussions as a foundation for future progress. The meeting, held at an Anchorage Air Force base, marked their first face-to-face dialogue since 2019.
"There were many, many points that we agreed on,"
Trump said at a joint press conference, emphasizing that "no deal" had been finalized but acknowledging "some headway." Putin echoed the sentiment, calling the summit "constructive" and expressing hope that the talks could serve as a starting point to settle the conflict and rebuild U.S.-Russia relations.
The leaders highlighted potential collaboration in energy, technology, and Arctic development. Putin warned Ukraine and European allies against undermining progress, while suggesting Moscow could host their next meeting. Notably absent were concrete details about achieving a ceasefire in what has become Europe's deadliest conflict in decades.
The summit's backdrop—featuring the phrase "Pursuing Peace"—contrasted with the lack of immediate breakthroughs. Observers noted the unusual inclusion of U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in expanded discussions, deviating from initial plans for one-on-one talks.
