After nearly three hours of discussions on August 15 at Joint Base Elmendorf–Richardson near Anchorage, Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin described their summit as “constructive,” though neither leader announced progress on a ceasefire in Ukraine.

During the press conference, Putin broke protocol by speaking first, describing the negotiations as “detailed” and conducted in a “constructive atmosphere of mutual respect.” He said the talks could serve as a “reference point” for resolving the conflict in Ukraine and rebuilding US–Russia relations.

Putin sees room for cooperation

The Russian president outlined areas for potential cooperation, including energy, technology, space exploration, and the Arctic. He reiterated Moscow’s position that addressing the root causes of the conflict is key to a long-term settlement.

“I have every reason to believe that by continuing on this path, we can end the conflict in Ukraine as soon as possible,” Putin said. He also warned against European efforts to “undermine progress” through provocations.

Closing the press conference, Putin switched briefly to English, smiling at Trump: “Next time in Moscow.” Trump replied: “That’s interesting. I’ll get a little heat for that, but I can see it possibly happening.”

Trump: “Significant Progress,” But No Deal Yet

Trump called the meeting “productive,” noting “significant progress” but acknowledging that disagreements remain. “We didn’t reach an agreement today, but we have a good chance of doing so,” he said.

In a later interview with Fox News host Sean Hannity, Trump revealed he held a private, “very candid” discussion with Putin after the press conference, insisting the Russian leader was serious about pursuing a settlement.

Trump emphasized that the next move lies with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. “It really depends on President Zelensky to finish it. The Europeans should also be a little more involved. But if they want me there, I’ll be at the next meeting,” he said.

Trump: Thank you Vladimir, I will probably see you again very soon.

Putin: Next time in Moscow?

Trump: I could see it happening.

— Clash Report (@clashreport) August 15, 2025

Zelensky to meet Trump in Washington

Zelensky quickly announced on X that he will meet Trump in Washington on Monday. He said Ukraine is ready to “do everything possible” to secure peace and endorsed Trump’s proposal for a trilateral summit involving the U.S., Russia, and Ukraine.

“On Monday, I will meet President Trump in Washington to discuss all the details of ending the killings and the war. I am grateful for the invitation,” Zelensky wrote.

According to Axios, Trump told Zelensky and NATO leaders that Putin prefers a comprehensive peace deal over a temporary ceasefire. “I think a quick peace deal is better than a ceasefire,” Trump reportedly said.

We had a long and substantive conversation with @POTUS. We started with one-on-one talks before inviting European leaders to join us. This call lasted for more than an hour and a half, including about an hour of our bilateral conversation with President Trump.

Ukraine reaffirms…

— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) August 16, 2025