Russia Warns of Foreign Efforts to Disrupt Trump–Putin Alaska Summit. The Chronology of the Day
A senior Russian official claims foreign powers are trying to derail a planned U.S.–Russia leaders’ summit in Alaska this weekend, where Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin are expected to discuss ending the war in Ukraine.
Kirill Dmitriev, Russia’s investment envoy, wrote on Telegram that «countries interested in continuing the conflict will make titanic efforts to disrupt» the meeting. He did not specify which nations he believes are involved.
Trump announced the August 15 gathering on Truth Social, calling it a «highly anticipated» meeting, while Putin’s aides welcomed Alaska as a venue due to its proximity to Russia and potential for Arctic economic cooperation.
It remains unclear whether Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will attend. The summit comes after Trump’s earlier 50-day deadline for Moscow to end the conflict drew sharp criticism from former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev.
Main Chronology – Zelensky, European Leaders and Trump Talks Ahead of Alaska Summit
- 09:12 – Zelensky prepares for virtual talks with Trump and European leaders. The call comes two days before Trump’s planned Alaska summit with Putin. The White House calls it a «listening exercise» for Trump; Zelensky warns any deal without Kyiv is a «dead decision.»
- 09:16 – White House pitches Trump–Putin meeting as ‘fact-finding.’ The Alaska summit is confirmed for August 15, requested by Putin. Trump calls it «highly anticipated.»
- 09:25 – BBC analysis warns of European concern. Correspondents note leaders want Ukraine’s direct involvement in talks.
- 09:35 – Zelensky calls for pressure on Russia. He urges allies to «compel Russia to make peace» and warns against falling for deception.
- 09:46 – Former NATO commander sceptical of summit. Gen. Sir Richard Shirreff says peace is unlikely without a stronger NATO stance.
- 09:55 – Zelensky to join meeting from Berlin. He will also meet German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
- 10:06 – Ex-UK ambassador warns of possible ‘sell-out.’ Leigh Turner says Trump may concede to Russia’s demands.
- 10:17 – Drone strikes and casualties reported overnight. Ukraine says it hit key Russian facilities; Russia claims to have downed dozens of Ukrainian drones.
- 10:26 – Agenda for today’s calls revealed. European leaders will first meet without Trump, then include him and VP JD Vance in a second round.
- 10:34 – Politico editor: Europe seeks ‘least worst outcome.’ Anne McElvoy says leaders fear Trump will trade territory for peace.
- 10:51 – Putin holds call with Kim Jong Un. They reaffirm cooperation; Kremlin says Alaska summit preparations were discussed.
- 11:07 – EU leaders warn against redrawing Ukraine’s borders. Statement signed by 26 of 27 leaders; Hungary abstains.
- 11:22 – Background: war’s origins. Recap of Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea and 2022 full-scale invasion.
- 11:38 – Zelensky arrives in Berlin. Meets Merz ahead of joint talks.
- 11:49 – Russia restates peace demands. Withdrawal from occupied regions and NATO renunciation — conditions Kyiv rejects.
- 12:00 – Merz and Zelensky meet in Berlin. Photo opportunity ahead of leaders’ virtual meeting.
- 12:10 – Diplomatic schedule set. NATO leaders meet at 13:00 BST; Trump joins at 14:00 BST; «coalition of the willing» meets at 15:30 BST.
- 12:20 – Trump praises ‘great’ European leaders ahead of call.
- 12:34 – BBC correspondent: Europe urges Trump to resist Putin. Zelensky’s inclusion in Alaska talks remains unlikely.
- 12:50 – Former Ukrainian soldier rejects land swaps. Yevhen Shibalov says giving up Donbas would betray those who defended it.
- 12:58 – Trump claims ‘we are winning on everything.’ Posts on Truth Social defending his decision to meet Putin in Alaska.
