Trump Stumbles: Lack of Concrete Outcomes Drew Sharp Criticism
Trump's peace hopes falter as Putin stands firm.
President Donald Trump’s high-stakes summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska ended without a ceasefire agreement for Ukraine, marking a significant setback for Trump’s diplomatic ambitions. Initially pushing for an immediate halt to the fighting with threats of “severe consequences” and sanctions, Trump shifted gears, aligning with Putin’s preference for a comprehensive peace accord over a temporary ceasefire, sources revealed.
However, the lack of concrete outcomes drew sharp criticism. Fiona Hill, Trump’s former Russia adviser, told AP that the summit left Trump in a weaker global position, unable to secure the ceasefire he championed. “He’s run up against a rock in Putin, who wants nothing but Ukraine,” she said, questioning Trump’s dealmaking prowess.
Democrats slammed Trump’s approach, with Sen. Jeanne Shaheen accusing him of being “played” by Putin. “He rolled out the red carpet for a dictator and got nothing,” she said, urging Congress to impose crushing sanctions. Sen. Jack Reed echoed the call for tougher measures, emphasizing responsible diplomacy.
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European leaders expressed relief that Trump avoided conceding Ukrainian territory but remained wary. Former Swedish Prime Minister Carl Bildt called the summit a “distinct win for Putin” and a “setback for Trump,” noting on X that it signaled a “weak and wobbling America.” Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, however, praised the talks as a diplomatic breakthrough for Moscow.
Trump, who once claimed he could end the Ukraine war in 24 hours, posted on Truth Social that a peace agreement, not a ceasefire, was the best path forward, citing its durability. He referenced calls with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders, but details of the discussions remain scarce. The White House did not respond to inquiries.
Republican allies offered muted support. Sen. Lisa Murkowski expressed cautious optimism, stressing Ukraine’s inclusion in any settlement, while Sen. Lindsey Graham predicted a possible end to the war by Christmas if a trilateral meeting occurs. Conservative activist Charlie Kirk hailed the summit itself as a “great thing.”
The summit, however, bolstered Putin’s global standing, allowing him to emerge from isolation while Russia continues its offensive. With Zelenskyy set to meet Trump in Washington on Monday, the path to peace remains uncertain, as Putin’s demands for territorial concessions and Ukraine’s neutrality clash with Kyiv’s insistence on sovereignty and security guarantees.
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