**Trump-Putin Summit in Alaska Ends Without Ukraine Peace Agreement**

Despite hopes of achieving a ceasefire, President Trump and President Putin fail to broker a deal in Anchorage.

In a highly anticipated summit in Alaska, US President Donald Trump concluded discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin without establishing a peace agreement to address the war in Ukraine. Following the meeting, Trump remarked, "There's no deal until there's a deal," acknowledging that while "great progress" was made, resolution remained elusive.

As Trump returned to Washington, he engaged in a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is set to visit the US on Monday. European leaders also participated in that call, amidst ongoing concerns over the war's duration and impact. Although the meeting was enveloped in ceremonial pomp—complete with a red carpet welcome for Putin and a photo opportunity under the sound of a B2 bomber—actual negotiations resulted in a joint statement rather than substantive advancements.

Putin reiterated his firm stance that a lasting agreement hinges on addressing the root causes of the conflict, which includes Ukraine relinquishing its claims to regions partially occupied by Russia. Zelenky has firmly opposed any such concessions, fearing they would embolden further Russian aggression.

The summit's brevity, lasting under three hours, caught observers off guard given earlier expectations of a more extended dialogue. During the session, Trump praised his rapport with Putin, although specifics regarding the primary obstacles to an agreement were not disclosed. The proposed bilateral lunch following their talks was also scrapped, indicating a stark contrast to the summit's initial expectations.

Following the meeting, Trump provided little clarity in an interview, asserting the discussions had "gone very well" but leaving unanswered questions about the future repercussions of his prior warnings regarding potential trade penalties against Russia.

The absence of Zelensky from the Alaska meeting was notable; he was in contact with Trump on the flight back. He expressed optimism regarding the prospects for a trilateral meeting and appreciated the US's commitment to securing Ukraine's defense, an aspect European allies have been eager to see addressed.

While the lack of a peace accord may bring temporary relief to some in Ukraine, concerns linger regarding Putin's rhetoric, hinting at a persistence in the Kremlin's objective of undermining Ukraine's sovereignty. As the global community keeps a watchful eye, the unresolved tensions highlight a complex, ongoing narrative amidst the backdrop of international diplomacy.