A meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on August 15th is set to be a significant event. This meeting represents their first encounter on US soil, with the primary goal of attempting to resolve the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. However, the likelihood of a breakthrough remains uncertain. Trump has previously warned Putin about the potential consequences of not agreeing to a ceasefire. Nevertheless, persuading Putin will be difficult, given his reputation as a seasoned political player. Experts believe Putin will attempt to gain an advantage over Trump during their meeting. Here’s a look at potential offers Trump may put on the table.
Possible Offers from Trump to Putin:
Firstly, Trump might offer access to Alaskan natural resources and minerals in exchange for peace, potentially giving Putin control over valuable resources in Ukrainian territories under Russian occupation. This could include access to Ukraine’s lithium reserves, which are crucial for battery production. These reserves are predominantly located in areas controlled by Russia.
Secondly, Trump may be willing to allow Russia to keep the territories it has seized in Ukraine, albeit without formal recognition. This strategy would involve accepting Russian control over four Ukrainian regions, ensuring Ukraine’s permanent neutrality, and imposing restrictions on its military capabilities. Reportedly, before the Alaska meeting, Russia proposed a peace deal through Trump’s special envoy, suggesting a cessation of hostilities if Ukraine conceded the Donbas region, which Ukraine declined.
Thirdly, Trump may attempt to assure Putin that he can lift the economic and trade sanctions imposed by European nations in response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine. The US may also consider removing sanctions specifically related to Russia’s aviation industry. Trump previously set a deadline for Putin to agree to a ceasefire.