The United States officials are racing to finalize arrangements for Friday's high-stakes summit between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, aimed at advancing peace talks to end the war in Ukraine.

The venue remains undecided, and it is unclear whether Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will be invited, said a CNN report. Trump hopes face-to-face diplomacy can yield progress, though European leaders insist Ukraine must be involved in any territorial discussions.
On Friday, President Trump and Russian President Putin will meet in Alaska where they are expected to discuss the war in Ukraine.@jonallendc, @KeirSimmons and @stengel join @AnaCabrera to discuss.https://t.co/9zz0xC329b
— MSNBC Reports (@MSNBC_reports) August 11, 2025
Reports suggest Putin's proposal includes Ukraine ceding the eastern Donbas region to Russia, with other territorial issues unresolved. European allies have pressed for a ceasefire and reciprocity in any concessions. Vice President JD Vance has been engaging European leaders to build support for Trump's efforts.
Trump allies believe he will approach the meeting from a position of strength, while critics warn against excluding Ukraine. The outcome could shape the future of the war and U.S.-European relations.
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