Anxiety is rippling through European capitals over President Trump’s upcoming meeting with Vladimir Putin in Alaska, with fears of a “Yalta 2.0” where major powers decide the fate of a smaller nation. Trump’s decision to meet the Russian leader without guaranteed participation from Ukraine has amplified concerns that Kyiv’s interests could be sacrificed.
The anxiety is fueled by Trump’s own comments. He has hinted at a peace deal that would legitimize Russian territorial gains through a “swapping of territories,” a framework that many in Europe see as a reward for aggression. His statement that he would meet Putin even without Zelenskyy present has been particularly alarming to allies.
This diplomatic track is being pursued even as the West presents a united economic front. The G7 and EU are lowering the price cap on Russian oil, and Trump himself is using tariffs and sanctions threats to pressure Moscow. However, the diplomatic approach appears to be diverging, with Trump favoring bilateral talks.
On the front lines, Ukrainian soldiers remain committed to defending their land, with commanders in Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia stating they have “no way out” but to fight. Their resolve highlights the potential for a peace deal struck in Alaska to be rejected by those doing the fighting and dying on the ground.
