In a dramatic turn of events, former President Donald Trump is set to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin next Friday in Alaska to discuss a potential resolution to the ongoing war in Ukraine. This high-stakes summit, announced by Trump on his social media platform, comes amid escalating frustrations over the lack of progress in ending the conflict that has claimed tens of thousands of lives since Russia’s invasion over three years ago.

While the Kremlin has yet to confirm the meeting’s details, anticipation is mounting as both nations have hinted at the urgency of these discussions. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has issued a stark warning: any peace negotiations that exclude Ukraine will be futile and counterproductive. “Decisions made without us are decisions against peace,” Zelensky declared, emphasizing that Ukraine must have a seat at the table to ensure any agreement is respected and viable.

The upcoming talks are seen as a potential breakthrough, yet the stakes could not be higher. Zelensky’s firm stance against sidelining Ukraine underscores the complexity of the situation, with the Ukrainian leader insisting that any peace deal must involve his nation directly. He has made it clear that Ukraine will not concede to Russian demands or accept any terms that undermine its sovereignty.

As the world watches closely, the Trump-Putin summit could pave the way for significant diplomatic shifts or deepen the crisis further. With tensions running high and the humanitarian toll escalating, all eyes will be on Alaska next Friday. Will this meeting lead to genuine peace, or will it be another missed opportunity? The clock is ticking, and the fate of Ukraine hangs in the balance.