Payam Javan: U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin wrapped up a closely watched summit in Alaska on Friday, signaling progress toward peace in Ukraine but falling short of announcing a cease-fire. The leaders spoke for roughly three hours before holding a joint press conference, where they described the talks as “productive” while offering few specifics. Putin said the discussions could mark a turning point in restoring pragmatic U.S.-Russia relations, while Trump noted that many points of agreement were reached, though major issues remain unresolved.

Putin emphasized that Ukraine should have post-war security guarantees but did not outline what those might entail. He reiterated Russia’s opposition to Ukraine joining NATO, framing it as a red line. Trump said he would brief Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and NATO allies before any agreement moves forward, stressing that “there’s no deal until there’s a deal.” Both leaders hinted at future meetings, with Putin suggesting Moscow as a possible venue.

The Alaska summit marked Putin’s first U.S. visit since 2015 and his first face-to-face meeting with Trump since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Held at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, the event carried symbolic weight with a military flyover and the slogan “Pursuing Peace” displayed behind the delegations. While Trump framed the summit as a step forward, Zelenskyy accused Russia of launching fresh attacks during the talks. Moscow denied the claims, underscoring the fragile nature of the diplomatic push.