Putin to meet Trump
Russian President Vladimir Putin presented the Trump administration this week with a sweeping proposal for a cease-fire in Ukraine, demanding major territorial concessions by Kyiv—and a push for global recognition of its claims—in exchange for a halt to the fighting, according to European and Ukrainian officials.
President Trump said Friday he would meet with Putin in Alaska on Aug. 15, following Putin’s proposal. He didn’t provide additional information about the meeting or the exact location. The Kremlin didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.
WSJ Interesting venue: Since the U.S. is not a member of the International Criminal Court, its arrest warrant for Vladimir Putin is not valid on American territory. Alaska is one of the few places where Putin can travel to, if Washington guarantees his safety. A frosty welcome, however.--ed
Chickening out?Trump had set Friday as a deadline for Putin to agree to an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine, or face the new, aggressive sanctions. But Trump declined to say whether he is making good on his threat or allowing Putin a little more time now that a meeting has been agreed upon.