Kyiv / Alaska, August 16, 2025
Ukrainians woke up on Saturday with mixed emotions after the Trump-Putin summit in Alaska. While no concrete agreements were reached on the war in Ukraine—a relief to some—the ceremonial treatment of Russian President Vladimir Putin drew sharp criticism at home.
The Red Carpet Reception
Upon arrival at Joint Base Elmendorf, Putin received an unusually warm welcome:
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Four U.S. fighter jets escorted his plane.
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American soldiers literally knelt to roll out a red carpet.
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Trump applauded and offered a friendly handshake.
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The two leaders rode together alone in Trump’s presidential limousine, laughing as the car pulled away.
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A B-2 bomber flew overhead with additional fighter jets.
For many Ukrainians, this ceremonial deference to a leader responsible for millions of deaths was shocking.
Maria Drachova, a Kyiv-based lawyer, commented:
"The rational world is behaving irrationally by giving him this welcome. It appeared staged to please Putin."
Political analyst Oleksandr Kovalenko added:
"There was no need for this pomp. This is legitimising a war criminal at the highest level."
Ukrainian Perspective on the Summit
For Ukrainians directly affected by the war, the optics were deeply painful:
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Serhii Orlyk, from Donetsk, said: "I lost my home twice. I understand protocol is necessary, but this spectacle was very unpleasant—especially his smirks."
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The overall display of smiles, laughter, and cordiality stood in stark contrast to the ongoing war that has killed and wounded hundreds of thousands.
Press Conference Dynamics
After greetings, the summit continued with a press session:
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Trump allowed Putin to speak first, giving him about eight minutes.
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Putin avoided responsibility for starting the war.
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Trump spoke only briefly, offering nothing substantive to demonstrate diplomatic success.
Kier Giles of Chatham House observed:
"It was a massive victory for Putin even before he got off the plane. Trump has effectively handed him the initiative."
Implications for Europe and Ukraine
European leaders are unlikely to replicate Trump’s approach. Analysts argue it underscores the importance of their involvement in negotiations as a counterbalance to Putin’s influence.
Zelensky emphasized that all stages of peace negotiations must include Ukraine and its European partners, ensuring that Trump cannot be swayed into concessions favorable to Russia.
Oleksandr Kovalenko noted:
"Perhaps this was intended to flatter Putin, but more likely it reflects Trump’s personal whim, without strategy."
Conclusion
While the Alaska summit did not produce any new agreements, the symbolic triumph for Putin and the controversial optics of the event have left many Ukrainians feeling frustrated and disillusioned. The upcoming meetings in Washington, including Zelensky’s planned visit, will be critical to ensuring that diplomatic efforts prioritize Ukraine’s sovereignty and security over ceremony.
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