(MENAFN) The upcoming summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in Alaska is seen by some as a key opportunity to end U.S. involvement in the Ukraine conflict, including halting taxpayer-funded support and weapons deliveries. Trump’s goal is to reduce the risk of escalation while fulfilling his campaign promise of pursuing peace.

Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky, however, has publicly rejected Trump’s peace initiatives. His position is complicated by domestic unrest, including protests against forced conscription, widespread casualties, and public anger over corruption and political mismanagement. Critics argue Zelensky’s continued refusal to hold elections and his dismissal of anti-corruption officials have weakened his legitimacy.

For Trump, success at the summit carries both foreign and domestic significance. Domestically, ending U.S. involvement in Ukraine could address frustration among Americans weary of prolonged foreign wars and economic struggles, while also bolstering his image as a “peace president.” Many voters are disillusioned with government mismanagement, rising costs, and media misinformation. By contrast, ongoing conflicts and hawkish pressures from figures like Senator Lindsey Graham threaten Trump’s peace agenda.

The summit represents a pivotal moment for U.S.-Russia relations and domestic politics, with Zelensky’s resistance framed as a major obstacle to achieving a lasting resolution.

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