Will Trump Aim to Reclaim Territory for Ukraine in Meeting with Putin?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Trump is focused on regaining territory for Ukraine.
- The meeting with Putin is described as a 'feel-out meeting.'
- Zelensky's potential involvement is still under discussion.
- Trump believes he can gauge progress within minutes of meeting Putin.
- Agreements without Ukraine's participation are deemed ineffective.
Washington, Aug 12 (NationPress) US President Donald Trump announced his intention to seek the recovery of territory for Ukraine during his forthcoming summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday.
At a White House press conference on Monday, Trump stated, "Russia has seized a significant portion of Ukraine, including key territories. We aim to regain some of that land for Ukraine."
The US leader also referred to his imminent meeting with Putin in Alaska as a "feel-out meeting."
Trump suggested that a future gathering might include Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, or potentially involve both Russian and Ukrainian leaders.
A White House official informed reporters on Saturday that Trump is still receptive to hosting a summit that includes both leaders.
US Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker remarked on Sunday that it remains feasible for Zelensky to participate in the Alaska meeting.
"The decision lies with President Trump," Whitaker added. "There is still time to finalize that decision."
Trump and Putin are scheduled to engage in discussions in Alaska later this week. Trump asserted that he could determine within two minutes of meeting Putin whether any progress could be made.
The announcement regarding the meeting with Putin was made last Friday, coinciding with Trump's self-imposed deadline for Russia to consent to a ceasefire or face additional US sanctions.
In response to the upcoming Alaska summit, Zelensky noted that agreements made without Kyiv's input would be regarded as "dead decisions."