WSJ Opinion: Potomac Watch Will Trump and Putin’s Alaska Summit Lead to a Ukraine Cease-Fire?
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Aug 11, 2025 Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin are set for a crucial summit in Alaska, aiming to negotiate a ceasefire in Ukraine without the presence of President Zelensky. The conversation dives into Russia's demands regarding territorial concessions and historical context in the Donetsk region. There's substantial skepticism about Russia's commitment to peace, alongside concerns from Ukrainians regarding territorial integrity and security guarantees. Additionally, the podcast discusses Trump's new Federal Reserve appointee Stephen Miran and his strategies to stimulate U.S. economic growth.
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Trump Meets Putin Without Zelensky
- Trump will meet Putin in Alaska without inviting President Zelensky, raising legitimacy concerns.
- By calling Zelensky only after any deal, Trump risks undermining Ukrainian consent and European support.
Putin's Reported Land-For-Ceasefire Offer
- Putin reportedly offers territorial concessions in Donetsk in exchange for a ceasefire.
- Jillian Melcher warns such concessions would harm Ukrainian defenses and may be hard to verify.
Push Europe To Fund Ukrainian Arms
- Urge European governments to buy and supply weapons so Ukraine can pressure Russia.
- J.D. Vance and Jillian Melcher argue the U.S. can push Europe to shoulder costs rather than fully withdraw support.