Outline of Putin’s Peace Proposal Emerges After Alaska Summit With Trump
Trump Putin Alaska summit
LONDON, Aug 16 (Reuters) – A potential outline of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s offer to end the war in Ukraine has emerged following his high-stakes summit with U.S. President Donald Trump in Alaska, according to diplomatic sources familiar with Moscow’s position.
The proposals suggest Russia would relinquish small occupied areas, while Ukraine would be asked to surrender large parts of its eastern territory—including Donetsk and Luhansk—in exchange for security guarantees and a partial freeze on the front lines.
Key Developments from the Alaska Summit
First U.S.-Russia presidential meeting since Ukraine war began
Putin and Trump discussed land transfers and security guarantees
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy traveling to Washington for talks with Trump on the proposals
Deal remains uncertain as Ukraine rejects territorial concessions
Trump: “Close to a Deal”
Speaking after the summit, Trump told Fox News host Sean Hannity that he and Putin had “largely agreed” on several issues, including territorial adjustments and future security arrangements for Ukraine.
“I think we’re pretty close to a deal. Ukraine has to agree to it. Maybe they’ll say no,” Trump stated.
However, the talks failed to secure an immediate ceasefire, something Kyiv has consistently demanded as Russian drones and missiles continue to pound Ukrainian cities daily.
Putin’s Reported Proposals
According to sources familiar with the discussions:
No Ceasefire Until Full Deal – Putin rejected halting military operations before a comprehensive agreement is reached.
Eastern Ukraine Withdrawal – Kyiv would withdraw from Donetsk and Luhansk, in return for Russia freezing advances in Kherson and Zaporizhzhia.
Small Land Concessions – Russia might return limited occupied areas in Sumy and Kharkiv (around 440 sq km), compared to Ukraine’s control of 6,600 sq km in Donbas.
Recognition of Crimea – Russia seeks formal recognition of its sovereignty over Crimea, annexed in 2014.
Sanctions Relief – Moscow expects the lifting of some Western sanctions.
No NATO Membership for Ukraine – Kyiv would be barred from joining NATO, though alternative security guarantees might be considered.
Language and Religion Rights – Putin demands official status for the Russian language and freedom for the Russian Orthodox Church in Ukraine.
Challenges for Ukraine and the West
The proposed deal presents major obstacles for Ukraine’s leadership:
Surrendering Donetsk and Luhansk would be seen as a strategic and political defeat.
Recognition of Crimea and limits on NATO membership clash directly with Ukraine’s constitutional objectives.
Allowing the Russian Orthodox Church operations raises concerns over security and propaganda.
European leaders, briefed by Trump, confirmed that discussions also included a potential “Article 5-style” security guarantee for Ukraine—outside the NATO framework.
What Comes Next?
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to visit Washington on Monday to discuss Trump’s summit talks and the possible framework for a peace settlement.
The situation remains fluid. Observers say it is unclear whether Putin’s proposals are a negotiating starting point or a final, non-negotiable offer.
For now, Ukraine maintains its position: no recognition of Russian territorial claims, no surrender of land, and no compromise on sovereignty.
