Key Point Summary – Putin praises Trump

• Putin lauds Trump’s “energetic and sincere efforts” for Ukraine peace
• Leaders to meet Friday in Alaska for private and joint talks
• Ukraine, Europe left out of summit, express fears over possible concessions
• Zelensky warns Putin is bluffing, urges caution
• Nuclear arms control deal may be back on the table
• Economic ties between U.S. and Russia also set for discussion
• Trump vows “severe consequences” if Putin refuses peace

Putin’s Surprising Praise Changes The Tone

On the eve of a tense Alaska summit, Vladimir Putin took an unexpected approach — complimenting Donald Trump. The Russian leader called Trump’s push for peace in Ukraine “energetic and sincere,” sending ripples through global political circles. His remarks came during a Kremlin meeting with advisers, where he painted the talks as a chance to stop the fighting, stabilize Europe, and possibly reset U.S.-Russia relations.

Praise Before The Storm

Putin’s words hinted that a nuclear arms control deal could be part of the negotiations. The New START treaty, which limits strategic offensive weapons, has been suspended since 2023. If brought back into play, it could mark a dramatic shift in U.S.-Russia diplomacy.

Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov confirmed the summit schedule — a private head-to-head between Trump and Putin with only translators present, followed by a joint press conference. The meeting will focus heavily on Ukraine, but both sides are also eyeing economic cooperation, something Putin labeled a “huge, untapped” opportunity.

Ukraine And Europe On Edge

Ukraine and Europe were not invited to the talks, a fact that has caused alarm. Leaders fear Trump could make concessions behind closed doors. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, after a video call with Trump, warned that Putin was bluffing about peace. He quickly flew to London to meet British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who stressed that any progress in Alaska depends on concrete action from the Kremlin.

Tensions Rise Over Possible Deals

European capitals have been scrambling, holding emergency calls to prepare for potential fallout. Trump assured allies there would be “very severe consequences” if Putin refused peace. According to officials familiar with the talks, Trump also pledged not to discuss any division of Ukrainian territory. Still, uncertainty looms over what the two leaders might privately agree to.

Stakes Go Beyond Ukraine

For Putin, the Alaska summit offers a chance to push for an end to Russia’s isolation from Western financial systems. Sanctions have crippled key sectors of the Russian economy, and while Trump has not lifted them, he has signaled interest in ending Russia’s “economic pariah” status.

For Trump, the meeting represents a test of his ability to secure a major diplomatic win without alienating allies. The possibility of tying a Ukraine peace deal to renewed nuclear arms agreements adds even more complexity.

The Public Split

In Washington, reactions are split. Supporters see Trump as a bold negotiator willing to speak directly with adversaries. Critics warn that private meetings with Putin risk undermining international unity against Russia’s aggression. In Kyiv and European capitals, nerves are stretched thin. Many fear waking up to a deal that favors Moscow.

What Comes Next In Alaska

The summit kicks off Friday at 11:30 a.m. local time in Alaska, with the world watching every move. A joint press conference will follow, but much of the real drama may unfold behind closed doors. Whether Putin’s praise is genuine or a strategic ploy will likely become clear only after the meeting ends.