A second meeting with Zelenskyy is the outcome we’re looking for: Amb. McFaul

Summit Overview - A summit between President Trump and Russian Leader Vladimir Putin is scheduled in Anchorage, Alaska, to discuss a ceasefire in the war in Ukraine and potential economic ties [1][2] - Putin's first time in the United States since 2015, expressing optimism about the summit and the Trump administration's efforts to resolve the crisis [1][2] Potential Outcomes and Concerns - Discussions may include potential economic ties with the U S and an end to the Kremlin's exile from the Western financial system [2] - Trump is considering offering Putin access to rare minerals to incentivize ending the war, but prioritizes saving lives [3][4] - A two-phase process is proposed, potentially involving Zelensky and European leaders to discuss a framework explored by Trump and Putin [6][7] - Concerns exist that Putin might offer Trump a deal that forces Ukraine to concede territory without adequate security [8] - There is uncertainty whether Trump will be tough with Putin and impose sanctions or accommodate Putin's desires for an improved relationship [9] Geopolitical Implications and Alliances - Trump's administration is building close relationships with British leaders, potentially influencing his approach to the deal with Russia [11] - The German Chancellor's relationship with Trump is seen as crucial for bringing along other European partners [12][13] - Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine three and a half years ago, an estimated 250,000 Russian soldiers have been killed, and total casualties are approaching 1 million [13] - Up to 100,000 Ukrainian troops have been killed [14] Analysis and Perspectives - Putin has already achieved a victory by meeting with the U S President, despite being an indicted war criminal [18] - The key outcome is to get a second meeting with President Zelensky, as the war cannot end without Ukrainian negotiation [19][20] - Putin's global influence has weakened, as seen in Russia's limited intervention in conflicts in the Caucasus and Syria [21] - Despite tough rhetoric, Trump has done little in real actions to pressure Putin, and a better strategy would have been to impose sanctions before the meeting [25][26]