Trump–Putin Summit on the Horizon – What’s at Stake?

The world’s attention is turning to Anchorage, Alaska, where U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin will meet on August 15 for their first face-to-face talks since 2019. This meeting, set against the backdrop of the ongoing Russia–Ukraine conflict, is being billed as a potential turning point in international diplomacy.

Trump has called the summit a “listening exercise,” suggesting it will serve as a platform for open dialogue rather than immediate deal-making. Still, he has hinted at the possibility of a follow-up meeting involving Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, signaling that the U.S. may push for Ukraine’s direct involvement in future discussions.

Putin has welcomed what he calls Washington’s “sincere efforts” to set the stage for meaningful talks, though both sides have tempered expectations for immediate breakthroughs. Global markets are watching closely — a modest easing of tensions could bring economic relief, while a failed summit might send oil prices surging above $80 per barrel.

As the date approaches, one thing is clear: this meeting could mark the start of a new chapter in U.S.–Russia relations, with ripple effects across Europe and beyond.