During the Alaska meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump, there were extensive discussions about the Ukraine war and bilateral relations. Following the meeting, a joint press conference suggested that the talks were positive and will continue.
Trump stated that he doesn't need to consider imposing harsh economic sanctions on Russia at present because the meeting was fruitful. However, he mentioned that depending on the situation in the next two to three weeks, he might reassess. Trump shared that Putin praised his efforts by noting, 'I've never seen anyone achieve so much so quickly. Your country is progressing rapidly, whereas a year ago, it seemed on the verge of collapse.'
Putin remarked, 'Your country is like a hot potato'
According to Trump, Putin's words were, 'Your country is like a hot potato; a year ago, he thought it was as good as dead.' Trump emphasized that it's now up to Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky to decide what steps to take towards peace. He shared that while there was agreement on many points during the talks, a significant issue still requires resolution.
Trump declared, 'No deal is complete until the deal is finalized.' He mentioned that Putin doesn't want to see more lives lost, with only a few issues remaining to be addressed. He hinted at the possibility of meeting Putin again soon.
Russia aims to end the conflict
Putin stated at the press conference that a major part of the discussion focused on the Ukraine crisis. He stressed the need to improve the situation and praised Trump's efforts to understand the root cause of the conflict. Putin expressed hope that the agreements reached will pave the way for peace and secure Ukraine's safety. He clearly stated that Russia genuinely wants to end the war and hopes Europe and Ukraine won't hinder the dialogue.
Putin invites Trump to Russia
Putin also mentioned that cooperation in the Arctic region between Russia and the United States is feasible, and there are enormous opportunities for business investments between the two countries. He claimed that had Trump been president in 2022, the conflict might never have started. The press conference concluded in an unusual manner, with Putin inviting Trump to Russia in English, saying, 'Next time in Moscow.' To which Trump, smiling, replied, 'That's interesting.'
