ABC News Daily Will Trump strike a 'land swap' deal with Putin?
Aug 12, 2025
In this discussion, Rajan Menon, Professor Emeritus of International Relations at the City College of New York, sheds light on the upcoming Trump-Putin summit in Alaska. He analyzes Trump’s desire for a Nobel Peace Prize and his controversial land swap proposal regarding Ukraine. Menon delves into the complexities of U.S. involvement in the conflict, the shifting dynamics involving Zelensky, and the potential implications of these negotiations. With skepticism about the summit's effectiveness, he highlights the challenges of achieving lasting peace amid mixed global reactions.
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Summit Follows Envoy Shuttle Diplomacy
- Donald Trump is pursuing a face-to-face summit with Vladimir Putin to push a peace deal for Ukraine.
- Rajan Menon says this follows Trump's envoy visits and a swift shift from threats to diplomacy.
Land Swap Proposal Lacks Ukrainian Consent
- Trump floated a 'land swap' giving Donetsk and Luhansk to Russia in exchange for Ukraine keeping parts of the south.
- Menon stresses Zelensky rejected any such proposal and cannot unilaterally change borders under Ukraine's constitution.
Trump's Rhetoric Risks Boosting Putin
- Trump repeatedly blames Zelensky and praises Putin, shaping a narrative that favors Russia.
- Menon warns Putin wins whether a deal is endorsed or the summit fails, as both outcomes suit him.