Trump's Upcoming Summit with Putin: Europe on the Sidelines as Stakes Rise

Ahead of his presidency, Donald Trump boldly claimed that the war in Ukraine could be resolved within a mere 24 hours. Fast forward to six months into his term, and the conflict rages on, prompting a vital summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin set for August 15 in Alaska. The potential outcomes of this meeting are uncertain, and a looming threat hangs over the discussions before they even commence. The implications of their talks could shape the future of Europe, yet strikingly, the region itself appears to be sidelined with no seats allocated at the negotiation table. Reports indicate that Trump is at least contemplating inviting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to the discussions, although White House spokespersons have tempered expectations by noting that the current focus rests on bilateral negotiations with Putin. The exclusion of both Zelensky and European representatives casts a shadow of powerlessness over Europe at a critical moment. Nevertheless, some European capitals seem to be working behind the scenes to exert influence over U.S. policy before Trump meets with Putin. Recent communications suggest that a group of European partners has been in active dialogue with the U.S. government, earning nods from sources who noted a positive inclination for the U.S. to engage in discussions with Europe, though what has been said in these meetings remains largely unclear. An EU Foreign Ministers meeting is slated for Monday, and EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas urged for Ukraine and European participation in any agreements stemming from the U.S.-Russia talks. She argues that this inclusion is essential for Ukraine's and the continent's security. A joint declaration from leaders of Germany, France, Italy, Poland, the U.K., Finland, and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen underscores the urgency of increasing pressure on Russia to cease hostilities. It is worth mentioning that during Trump's memorable meeting with von der Leyen on July 27 in Scotland, there seemed to be a mutual understanding, evidenced by the successful tariff deal that Trump has since touted as a personal victory. However, this does not imply that Trump regards von der Leyen or the EU as a significant player in global political affairs. When asked if the EU Commission felt slighted by their exclusion from the summit preparations, a spokesperson conveyed that they were accustomed to being overlooked in global discussions. Currently, the Commission President is working alongside European leaders to assert influence and facilitate support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The joint declaration reiterates European sentiments that the distinction between victim and aggressor in this conflict cannot be blurred by Trump and Putin’s discussions. It firmly states that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is a blatant violation of international law, including the United Nations Charter. The declaration further stresses that the interests of Ukraine and Europe demand protection, welcoming Trump’s intentions to curtail violence in Ukraine while also cautioning against any compromises that might undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty. European leaders are prepared to back diplomatic efforts while continuing extensive military and financial support for Ukraine and enforcing sanctions against Russia. Crucially, a ceasefire or, at the very least, a significant reduction in hostilities is described as a prerequisite for meaningful negotiations. In previous statements, Trump raised the possibility of Ukraine ceding territory, a proposition met with stern resistance from European officials. They assert that the path to peace cannot be negotiated without Ukraine at the forefront. Upholding the principle that international borders must remain inviolable, Europeans stress that the existing contact line should serve as the foundation for negotiations, while also insisting that Ukraine’s long-term vital interests must be safeguarded through credible security guarantees, empowering Ukraine to defend its territory. As the summit approaches, the question remains: Can Trump and Putin pave a path to peace that respects Ukraine's sovereignty and involves European voices, or will this high-stakes dialogue result in decisions made without the key stakeholders at the table? Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2