Trump to meet Putin at Alaska military base, eyes follow-up with Zelenskyy

US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are scheduled to hold a one-on-one summit on August 15, at Joint Base Elmendorf‑Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska.

The Alaska summit marks the first in-person meeting between Trump and Putin since 2019. Officials say the base was chosen for its unmatched security capabilities—including controlled airspace, secure meeting areas, and event logistics—amid Alaska’s peak tourist season when civilian venues were largely unavailable, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

Anchorage’s historical and symbolic importance—once Russian territory—adds gravitas to the choice. “Despite initial reluctance, the base proved the only viable option,” one report noted.

The White House describes the meeting as a “listening session”—a precise, focused discussion to assess Putin’s intentions. Trump, calling it a “feel‑out meeting,” has also indicated the potential for “very severe consequences” if Putin fails to agree to a ceasefire.

Following the Alaska meeting, Trump anticipates arranging a second session, potentially involving both Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy—or a separate meeting with Zelenskyy alone. “The next meeting will be with Zelenskyy and Putin or Zelenskyy and Putin and me,” he said.

European leaders and Ukraine have raised concerns about being excluded from the dialogue, warning that sidelined talks could undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty and regional security.

By Vafa Guliyeva