Trump’s Alaska Gambit: A Controversial Path to Peace
US President Donald Trump has thrown a fresh twist into the high-stakes Russia-Ukraine conflict, proposing that both nations “swap land” as part of a potential ceasefire deal. The move, which he plans to discuss with Russian President Vladimir Putin on August 15 in Alaska, comes with promises, risks, and fierce opposition on the ground.
The Core of Moscow’s Demands
For Moscow, the prize lies in cementing control over Donetsk and Luhansk — territories rich in coal, industry, and infrastructure. These regions have been at the heart of the war since 2014, and Russia shows no signs of relinquishing them. In fact, one of the Kremlin’s non-negotiables is keeping Ukraine out of NATO.
Kyiv’s Conditional Willingness
While Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has signaled a reluctant willingness to cede some territory, it comes with a catch — NATO membership and ironclad security guarantees. Without those, Kyiv says the deal is dead on arrival.
What the Proposal Could Mean on the Map
The plan floated after US special envoy Steve Witkoff’s Moscow visit suggests Kyiv might surrender the last parts of Donetsk under its control, freezing the front lines and halting the fighting. But this would also cement Russian control over areas seized in Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, and Crimea.
Voices from the Ground in Ukraine
In Sloviansk, near the contested Donbas region, the mere idea of a US-backed land swap has stirred anxiety. Local journalist Mykhailo told CNN that the prospect feels “dark and surreal,” adding, “Many of my friends will have to leave.” The town, once seized by Russian proxies in 2014 and later reclaimed by Ukraine, remains on edge, with defensive trenches still in place.
The Ceasefire Stalemate
Trump earlier called for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire — something Kyiv agreed to in March, but Moscow rejected. Instead, Russia has intensified its attacks since Trump took office. In response, Trump has increased pressure through economic sanctions and by hiking tariffs on India, a major buyer of Russian oil, in an effort to weaken Moscow’s war chest.
High Stakes in Alaska
Trump has hinted at a follow-up meeting involving himself, Putin, and Zelensky, aiming to seal the deal in person. “There’ll be some land swapping going on,” he told reporters, suggesting the Alaska talks will serve as a critical temperature check on Russia’s willingness to negotiate.