Matthew Whitaker, the US ambassador to NATO, shared that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to join upcoming meetings in Alaska with both President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
CNN’s Dana Bash inquired during “Union Status” about the likelihood of Zelensky attending the Alaska Summit to discuss a ceasefire agreement.
“I think that’s certainly a possibility,” Whitaker responded, noting, “You really can’t finalize any deal without the agreement of everyone involved.”
Trump is scheduled to meet Putin in Alaska on Friday, with plans to address the conclusion of the three-year conflict between Ukraine and Russia. The White House indicated discussions about land concessions are underway.
“You can see the territory impacted over these three and a half years. Many lives have been lost on both sides. We see that, but when it comes down to it, we go back to swapping territory. Honestly, it’s pretty straightforward. It’s quite simple,” he added.
There’s also some buzz around the possibility of inviting Zelensky to Alaska.
“The president is open to a meeting that includes both leaders. Right now, the White House is planning a bilateral discussion at the request of President Putin,” a senior official told News Nation’s Libby Dean on Saturday.
On the same day, Putin shared a ceasefire proposition with special envoy Steve Witkov, suggesting a complete ceasefire in exchange for Easter Ukraine, as reported by the Wall Street Journal.
Zelensky responded, stating, “Decisions made without Ukraine are decisions for peace, but they yield no results,” indicating his concerns.
“These are decisions that lack feasibility. We need genuine peace—peace that is respected by all.”
While reactions to the summit have been mixed, Whitaker expressed confidence that “President Trump’s direct engagement brings us closer to achieving peace.”
