Trump Leaks Putin Summit Secret
President Donald Trump declared Friday that he will not be negotiating on behalf of Ukraine during his high-stakes summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska — and warned that without him in the Oval Office, Russia would have already taken over the entire country.
“Vladimir Putin wanted to take all of Ukraine. If I wasn’t president, he would right now be taking all of Ukraine,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One. “But he’s not going to do it.”
Ukraine’s Decisions Will Be Made in Kyiv — Not Washington
When asked if land swaps or territorial agreements could be part of a future peace deal, Trump made it clear: those choices will be up to Ukraine, not the United States.
“They’ll be discussed, but I’ve got to let Ukraine make that decision,” Trump said. “I think they’ll make the right decision. My role is to bring them to the table — not to negotiate for them.”
Russian Strikes Seen as Negotiation Tactics
Trump also addressed reports of fresh Russian missile and drone attacks on Ukraine just hours before the summit. He suggested Putin may see such moves as a way to gain leverage — but said they could ultimately backfire.
“In his mind, that helps him make a better deal. But in reality, it hurts him. I’ll be talking to him about it,” Trump explained.
Zelensky Not at the Table — For Now
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will not be attending the Alaska meeting, but Trump has hinted at a potential follow-up session that could bring all three leaders together.
Trump: 25% Chance Talks Could Fail
While confident in his approach, Trump estimated there’s a 25% chance Friday’s discussions with Putin could fail, saying his immediate goal is to “set the table for the next meeting.”
