Ukraine has been left out of upcoming talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump in Alaska. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned the world not to trust Moscow, citing intelligence that suggests Russia is preparing for new military offensives instead of peace.
Zelenskyy said Russian troop movements signal plans for further attacks and that Moscow is not preparing for a ceasefire or post-war situation. He accused Putin of seeking a personal diplomatic victory while continuing pressure on Ukraine.
Kyiv’s exclusion from the talks has raised concerns, with Ukraine insisting no deal about its future should be made without its involvement. European leaders have pushed for Ukraine’s inclusion, and the U.S. has hinted at possibly inviting Zelenskyy.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called for an emergency virtual summit with Trump, Zelenskyy, and European leaders to coordinate pressure on Russia and discuss the fate of Ukrainian territories.
EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas criticised Putin’s approach as insincere, aimed at delaying sanctions, and stressed that Europe and Ukraine must be part of any agreement. She noted Russia has made no concessions, while Ukraine offered an unconditional ceasefire months ago.
President Trump described the talks as a “feel-out meeting” and suggested territorial swaps might be on the table but emphasised trying to secure land for Ukraine. Analysts view the meeting as exploratory, unlikely to produce a comprehensive solution without further negotiations, which Moscow may use to its advantage.
Concerns remain that the Kremlin could offer limited de-escalation as a diplomatic win while demanding Ukrainian concessions. If Kyiv refuses, Moscow might blame Ukraine for blocking peace and count on U.S. pressure on Zelenskyy.
Zelenskyy has rejected any proposals involving territorial concessions, making clear Kyiv’s red lines. Despite reliance on U.S. support, he and Ukraine’s parliament are unlikely to accept deals viewed as unfavourable or lacking public support.
With deep mistrust and political complexities, the Trump-Putin talks face a challenging path ahead. Fighting continues fiercely in eastern Ukraine, with international attention fixed on diplomatic efforts and ongoing conflict.