Zelensky Slams Alaska Summit as Putin’s Diplomatic Triumph
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has sharply criticized a planned U.S.-Russia summit in Alaska, labeling it a “personal victory” for Russian President Vladimir Putin. In a statement reported by Reuters on August 12, 2025, Zelensky expressed dismay over the meeting, which is set to include U.S. President Donald Trump and Putin. The Ukrainian leader argued that the summit bolsters Putin’s global standing at a time when Ukraine seeks to maintain international pressure on Russia amid ongoing conflict.
Zelensky’s remarks came during an address to Ukraine’s parliament, where he firmly rejected any notion of ceding the Donbas region or withdrawing Ukrainian forces from the area. He emphasized that such a move would undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty and play into Russia’s hands, particularly as Putin has pushed for territorial concessions to end hostilities. The Alaska summit, Zelensky warned, risks legitimizing Russia’s actions by giving Putin a platform to negotiate with the U.S., potentially sidelining Ukraine’s interests.
According to Reuters, Zelensky highlighted the timing of the summit as particularly troubling, noting that it follows months of intensified Russian military actions in eastern Ukraine. He suggested that the meeting could weaken the resolve of Western allies to support Ukraine’s defense efforts, especially as European leaders have rallied behind Kyiv in rejecting territorial concessions. The White House, however, has indicated that Trump remains open to inviting Zelensky to the summit, a point reported by Sky News on August 12, 2025. Despite this, Zelensky expressed skepticism about the invitation, viewing the summit as a diplomatic win for Putin.
The Ukrainian president’s comments reflect growing tensions in U.S.-Ukraine relations, particularly as Trump’s administration has prioritized direct talks with Russia. Zelensky urged European nations to maintain their support for Ukraine, warning that any perceived softening of Western resolve could embolden Russia further. Posts on X echoed Zelensky’s concerns, with some users describing the summit as a risky move that could undermine Ukraine’s position in the ongoing war.