The ongoing Ukrainian war has claimed over a million lives, making it imperative to find a peaceful solution as soon as possible. A meeting between Trump and Putin at the Alaska summit could mark a significant turning point in this conflict. However, it is crucial that both parties recognize the root causes of the war and address them.
NATO’s expansion into Eastern Europe has been a major contributor to the conflict. The 2008 invitation to Ukraine and Georgia to join NATO constitutes a significant cause of the current crisis. The presence of NATO at Russia’s borders poses a significant security risk, as no sovereign country would accept such a menace.
The US has shown a lack of credibility in its dealings with Russia, often breaking agreements and refusing to honor commitments. This tradition of not honoring agreements renders it difficult to craft viable peace deals. Trump’s reputation for being untrustworthy is a concern, given his past actions, including the 2025 Iran bombing.
European leaders’ refusal to consider territorial concessions by Ukraine has been particularly egregious. They have ignored international law and imposed unilateral coercive measures on Russia, despite UN resolutions condemning these actions. The US and Europe have committed numerous breaches of international law themselves, making them no moral or legal authority.
Putin’s concerns about national security are legitimate, and the right to self-determination for the Russian people in the Donbass region is non-negotiable. The Alaska summit offers an opportunity to reach a deal that guarantees the security of all parties and reaffirms the right of self-determination of all peoples in the region.
Ultimately, peace requires addressing the root causes of the conflict and recognizing the sovereignty of Ukraine. Trump must understand that reaching a deal with Putin means acknowledging these facts. The international community is watching, and it is essential to find a peaceful solution to this devastating war.
Source: https://www.counterpunch.org/2025/08/14/ukraine-pax-optima-rerum