Today in Focus Can Europe’s leaders drag Trump’s Ukraine policy back on track? – Today in Focus Extra podcast
Aug 18, 2025
Julian Borger, Senior International Correspondent at The Guardian, discusses European leaders' strategic support for Ukraine's President Zelenskyy during his visit to Washington. He analyzes the complexities of Trump's fluctuating policies on Ukraine and their implications for peace negotiations. The conversation also dives into the evolving U.S. security guarantees, the potential role of European troops, and how flattery could be key in engaging Trump on Ukraine policy. Zelenskyy's coalition-building efforts are highlighted as crucial in navigating these turbulent geopolitical waters.
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Europe Alarmed By Alaska Summit
- European leaders ripped up schedules to fly to Washington because they are alarmed by Trump's Alaska meeting with Putin.
- They view the meeting as a pivotal moment that could decide the future of European security.
Trump's Sudden Policy Reversal
- Trump's position shifted 180 degrees after three hours with Putin, moving from threats of sanctions to downplaying a ceasefire.
- That change handed momentum to Putin's aim for a comprehensive agreement rather than an immediate halt to fighting.
Trump Shifts Burden To Zelensky
- Trump suggested Zelensky could end the war by conceding territory and NATO membership, framing the onus on Ukraine.
- Julian Borger notes that Putin's demands are far larger, so Trump's suggestion is smaller than Putin's actual aims.