Russian President Vladimir Putin has lauded the Trump administration’s “energetic and sincere” efforts to end the war in Ukraine, expressing optimism that his upcoming summit with US President Donald Trump could lay the groundwork for broader peace and possibly a new agreement on nuclear arms control. Speaking at the Kremlin on Thursday, ahead of Friday’s high-profile meeting in Alaska, Putin said the talks aim to “create long-term conditions for peace between our countries, as well as in Europe, and in the world as a whole.” He suggested that the “next stages” of dialogue could include accords on controlling strategic offensive weapons.
While Putin did not elaborate on the details, such agreements have historically covered nuclear arms, including intercontinental-range missile systems. The two nations are bound by the New START treaty, signed in 2010 and effective since 2011, which limits deployed nuclear warheads and delivery systems. That treaty is set to expire in February 2026, adding urgency to discussions on arms control. However, tensions remain high after Trump revealed he ordered two nuclear submarines to be strategically deployed near Russia in response to “highly provocative” comments by Dmitry Medvedev, Russia’s former president and current Security Council deputy chairman.
European leaders, eager to influence the outcome of the Alaska talks, held a joint call with Trump on Wednesday. They reportedly pressed for an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine and insisted that Kyiv must be part of any future negotiations. According to European officials, Trump responded positively to their concerns, signaling support for a peace process that includes Ukraine’s direct participation.
Kremlin foreign policy aide Yury Ushakov outlined the summit’s format, revealing that the presidents will first hold a one-on-one discussion with interpreters, followed by an expanded meeting over a business lunch. Key agenda items include the war in Ukraine, arms control, and opportunities for economic and trade cooperation between the two countries. Ushakov confirmed that a joint press conference will follow the talks, where both leaders are expected to address the outcomes.
The Alaska summit marks the first face-to-face meeting between Putin and Trump since the escalation of the Ukraine conflict, raising expectations — and concerns — about potential diplomatic breakthroughs or shifts in US-Russia relations. With the war grinding on and the New START treaty nearing expiration, Friday’s talks could shape not only the future of the conflict but also the global nuclear security landscape.
