analysis

Hardly anyone expected that a ceasefire for Ukraine would actually be declared in Alaska. But Trump's behavior toward Putin has undercut even the lowest expectations.

Much ado about nothing

US President Donald Trump himself had heightened expectations for the historic and symbolic meeting in Alaska, hinting that there might be a ceasefire. The whole world watched this staging in the former Russian colony, which Trump offered his audience during prime time on US television. His fans may have liked it, but the rest of the world expected more: images of a handshake circulating around the world, but no tangible result.

The appearance was a celebration for Putin

Trump rolled out the red carpet for Vladimir Putin in front of the entire world. He brought the man, for whom there is an international arrest warrant, back onto the world stage. It was a celebration for the Russian president, for whom symbolism counts. Putin savored the appearance with a triumphant smile. This is exactly what Putin has wanted for years: to be among the greats again, on a par with the most powerful man in the world, Donald Trump. According to everything we know so far, Putin has delivered virtually nothing in return.

Trump has fallen into Putin's trap

No ceasefire, no"deal." So far, no results are visible that would justify this symbolic appearance. Perhaps there are results that are not yet visible. At the moment, the impression remains that Trump allowed Putin to set a trap for him: Putin hinted at a willingness to negotiate just as Trump and the Europeans were about to impose new sanctions.

Former intelligence agent Putin has publicly humiliated the self-proclaimed"dealmaker" Trump. No one will likely want to nominate him for the Nobel Peace Prize, which Trump reportedly dreams of, the day after the summit.

Disappointment in Ukraine

The drones and missiles continue to fly, and there's still no ceasefire. It's bitter. For many in Ukraine, these images must have been hard to bear. Putin, the attacker, with a cheerful smile on stage next to Trump. Will Trump continue to support Ukraine or turn away from this war and turn to American government, as he has previously indicated? Even more important now is how much support the Europeans provide, not least militarily.

Europeans are just spectators

The two largest nuclear powers are talking about Europe, and the Europeans are left out and can only watch it on television. There are currently no tangible results. That's the reality. When will a European peace initiative emerge? Who can and wants to negotiate with Putin? That would certainly be a task for the heavyweights Germany, France, and Great Britain.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz will have to make a lot of phone calls. What sanctions can Europe muster to increase pressure on Moscow? There will be no deal until the deal is done, Trump has said. This could mean that he believes he can still achieve something together with his European NATO partners. It's the Europeans' turn.