The international spotlight has shifted to Washington after a high-profile meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. The discussions have triggered fresh debates over the possibility of a long-term peace agreement in Ukraine, with sharp differences emerging between the United States and European nations.
Following the Alaska meeting, the White House hosted talks on August 18, 2025, between Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Jalensky, and several European leaders. According to reports, while Trump and Putin appeared aligned on seeking a “durable peace deal,” European leaders continued to push for a short-term ceasefire approach.
Lavrov Backs Trump, Targets Europe
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, a close aide of Putin, praised Trump’s stance, claiming that the U.S. president was working “honestly” to end the war with a lasting agreement. Speaking to Russia24, Lavrov said,
“The atmosphere of the Trump-Putin meeting in Alaska was very good. It was clear that President Trump and his team want results that are long-term, durable, and reliable.”
Lavrov, however, criticized European countries, accusing them of using ceasefire talks as a cover to continue supplying arms to Ukraine.
Trump-Jalensky Meeting Gains Attention
During the White House talks, Trump and Jalensky displayed a warmer rapport than in previous encounters. Both leaders praised each other in front of the media, signaling a possible thaw in U.S.-Ukraine relations.
Reports suggest European leaders attended the meeting primarily to prevent Trump from pressuring Jalensky into a direct agreement with Russia.
U.S. Security Guarantees and Ukraine’s $90 Billion Arms Deal
President Trump rejected the idea of an immediate ceasefire, instead emphasizing discussions around security guarantees for Ukraine. In a notable development, Jalensky announced that Ukraine would purchase U.S. weapons worth $90 billion, funded largely through European contributions, in exchange for American security commitments.
Trump also held a 40-minute phone call with Putin during the White House discussions, further fueling speculation about Washington and Moscow’s backchannel negotiations.
What Lies Ahead
While Trump and Putin appear to share common ground on a long-term settlement, European nations remain skeptical and continue to stress short-term ceasefire measures. With Ukraine’s military and financial stakes growing, the coming months could decide whether the conflict edges toward a peace deal or remains stuck in geopolitical deadlock.