US President Donald Trump expressed confidence that Russian leader Vladimir Putin will arrive at the summit in Alaska on Friday, August 15, with the intention to “sign an agreement” to end the war in Ukraine, reports Baltimore Chronicle, citing CNN. Trump stated that he has high expectations for the talks, believing that Putin is ready to reach a deal. “I believe he is now convinced that he will sign a deal. He will sign a deal,” the US president said.
Trump also clarified that his goal is to organize a trilateral meeting involving Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, proposing several options for the meeting’s location, including Alaska itself. “If the meeting is unsuccessful, I will just go home and won’t call anyone,” he added. However, if the talks are successful, Trump promised to contact Zelensky and European leaders.
Regarding potential economic incentives for Russia, Trump responded cautiously, stating that he did not want to reveal his plans in advance, but that economic sanctions and incentives could be important elements of the negotiations. The president also emphasized that sanctions against India had affected the country’s oil purchases from Russia, which might also influence Putin’s decision.
Zelensky, for his part, stated that Trump would contact him after meeting with Putin. The US leader also mentioned that if the summit in Alaska goes well, he would hold a second meeting, which could include Zelensky.
Earlier we wrote that Trump announces Zelensky will not attend talks with Putin on August 15.