Today, Explained Trump meets with Europe
75 snips
Aug 18, 2025 
Julia Yoffe, a founding partner at Puck and author of 'Motherland,' and Oliver Carroll, a Kiev correspondent for The Economist, dive into the diplomatic dance between the U.S. and Europe amid the Russia-Ukraine war. They discuss Zelensky's critical visit to Washington, highlighting the urgency for support against Russian aggression. Yoffe and Carroll reveal the stark contrasts between Trump's past meeting with Putin and today's diplomatic efforts. They explore the resilience of Ukrainians, the psychological toll of war, and the strategic importance of Europe's partnership with the U.S.
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Alaska Summit Strengthened Putin's Hand
- Trump's Alaska summit validated Russia's maximalist positions and shifted away from a ceasefire that would freeze Russian gains.
- Julia Yoffe argues Putin gained leverage by offering a vague larger peace while avoiding immediate concessions.
Peace Terms Risk Leaving Ukraine Undefended
- Proposed deal elements include Ukraine ceding Donetsk and Luhansk and US recognition of Crimea as Russian.
- Yoffe warns security guarantees with Russia-allied guarantors like China or Belarus would be hollow due to veto risk.
Bring Ukraine Into Any Negotiation
- Zelensky is visiting Washington to ensure Ukraine's voice is central to any negotiations and to block decisions made over Ukraine's head.
- Do pressure negotiators to exclude guarantors who can veto action and demand concrete, enforceable security guarantees.
