Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on early Saturday (Aug 16) that he will be visiting Washington on Monday (Aug 18) after being invited following a call with US President Donald Trump. This comes after Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin met in Alaska to discuss an agreement for a ceasefire in Ukraine. Zelensky also expressed willingness for a trilateral meeting between Ukraine, the USA, and Russia. He added that European powers are involved at every stage of the talks to ensure reliable security guarantees together with the United States.&nbsp;“On Monday, I will meet with President Trump in Washington, D.C., to discuss all of the details regarding ending the killing and the war. I am grateful for the invitation,” Zelensky wrote in an X post.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We had a long and substantive conversation with <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>. We started with one-on-one talks before inviting European leaders to join us. This call lasted for more than an hour and a half, including about an hour of our bilateral conversation with President Trump. Ukraine reaffirms… <a href="https://t.co/64IPVhtFaB">pic.twitter.com/64IPVhtFaB</a>&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1956618668210626884?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The two leaders will be meeting nearly two months after they met on the sidelines of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) summit in The Hague on June 25, 2025. The last time the Ukrainian president was in Washington was in February this year, when he engaged in a shouting match with Trump.&nbsp;He described the talks with the US president as “a long and substantive conversation”. He added that the call initially started on a one-on-one basis, and later, the European leaders joined the two. The call lasted for more than an hour and a half, including about an hour of bilateral talks.&nbsp;The Washington meeting is set to take place three days after Trump and Putin met in Alaska. The two leaders did not announce any breakthrough in the talks, which happened on Friday (Aug 15).&nbsp;The Ukrainian leader further reaffirmed his country’s readiness to “work with maximum effort to achieve peace.” He said that Trump briefed him about his meeting with Putin and informed the main points of their discussion.&nbsp;Zelensky added that he supports Trump’s proposal for a trilateral meeting between Ukraine, the United States, and Russia. “Ukraine emphasizes that key issues can be discussed at the level of leaders, and a trilateral format is suitable for this,” he said.&nbsp;He further noted that European involvement in the talks is important at every stage “to ensure reliable security guarantees together with America.”&nbsp;The two leaders also discussed “positive signals from the American side regarding participation in guaranteeing Ukraine’s security.” Zelensky said, “We continue to coordinate our positions with all partners. I thank everyone who is helping.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on early Saturday (Aug 16) that he will be visiting Washington on Monday (Aug 18) following a call with US President Donald Trump.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on early Saturday (Aug 16) that he will be visiting Washington on Monday (Aug 18) after being invited following a call with US President Donald Trump. This comes after Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin met in Alaska to discuss an agreement for a ceasefire in Ukraine. Zelensky also expressed willingness for a trilateral meeting between Ukraine, the USA, and Russia. He added that European powers are involved at every stage of the talks to ensure reliable security guarantees together with the United States. “On Monday, I will meet with President Trump in Washington, D.C., to discuss all of the details regarding ending the killing and the war. I am grateful for the invitation,” Zelensky wrote in an X post.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on early Saturday (Aug 16) that he will be visiting Washington on Monday (Aug 18) following a call with US President Donald Trump.

Trump to meet Zelensky next? Ukrainian President says will visit Washington on THIS date

US President Donald Trump, early on Saturday (Aug 16), spoke with his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelensky, and briefed him on the Alaska meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The two leaders had a "lengthy call" as Trump flew back to Washington after the much-anticipated summit in Anchorage, Alaska, said White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. In a post on X, the Ukrainian president revealed that he and Trump had a “long and substantive conversation”. He said that they engaged in a call that “lasted for more than an hour and a half, including about an hour of our bilateral conversation with President Trump.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/melania-trump-sent-putin-letter-on-ukraine-s-stolen-children-during-alaska-summit-what-did-she-say-all-we-know-1755318236327">Melania Trump sent Putin letter on Ukraine’s ‘stolen children’ during Alaska summit. What did she say? All we know</a><h2>Trump informed Zelensky about the ‘main points’ of the Alaska meet with Putin</h2>On X, Zelensky said he and Trump started the call with “one-on-one talks before inviting European leaders to join us.” On the call, Trump, Zelensky said, “informed about his meeting with the Russian leader and the main points of their discussion”. The president added that “We also discussed positive signals from the American side regarding participation in guaranteeing Ukraine’s security. ”He also reaffirmed Ukraine's “readiness to work with maximum effort to achieve peace,” and said that “It is important that America’s strength has an impact on the development of the situation”.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-he-and-putin-largely-agreed-on-ukraine-land-swaps-us-security-guarantees-1755314323946">Trump says he and Putin 'largely' agreed on Ukraine land swaps, claims war 'pretty close to the end' but Kyiv needs to 'make&nbsp;a&nbsp;deal'</a><h2>Zelensky says he's ready for ‘trilateral’ meet</h2>In the lengthy X post, the leader of war-torn Ukraine also said that his nation was ready for a trilateral meeting with Russia and the United States. “We support President Trump’s proposal for a trilateral meeting between Ukraine, the USA, and Russia. Ukraine emphasises that key issues can be discussed at the level of leaders, and a trilateral format is suitable for this.”

Stressing the importance of keeping the Europeans “involved at every stage” he said it would “ensure reliable security guarantees together with America.” Zelensky also revealed that he would “meet with President Trump in Washington, DC, to discuss all of the details regarding ending the killing and the war. I am grateful for the invitation.”<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-trump-summit-putin-warns-of-backroom-dealings-provocations-1755332946404/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-trump-summit-putin-warns-of-backroom-dealings-provocations-1755332946404/embed</a>&nbsp;

Donald Trump called Volodymyr Zelensky from Air Force One after the Alaska summit with Vladimir Putin, briefing him on the “main points” of his talks with the Russian leader. Zelensky has also backed Trump's proposal for a ‘trilateral meeting between Ukraine, the USA, and Russia’. 

US President Donald Trump, early on Saturday (Aug 16), spoke with his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelensky, and briefed him on the Alaska meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The two leaders had a "lengthy call" as Trump flew back to Washington after the much-anticipated summit in Anchorage, Alaska, said White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. In a post on X, the Ukrainian president revealed that he and Trump had a “long and substantive conversation”. He said that they engaged in a call that “lasted for more than an hour and a half, including about an hour of our bilateral conversation with President Trump.” Also read | Melania Trump sent Putin letter on Ukraine’s ‘stolen children’ during Alaska summit. What did she say? All we know Trump informed Zelensky about the ‘main points’ of the Alaska meet with Putin On X, Zelensky said he and Trump started the call with “one-on-one talks before inviting European leaders to join us.” On the call, Trump, Zelensky said, “informed about his meeting with the Russian leader and the main points of their discussion”. The president added that “We also discussed positive signals from the American side regarding participation in guaranteeing Ukraine’s security. ” He also reaffirmed Ukraine's “readiness to work with maximum effort to achieve peace,” and said that “It is important that America’s strength has an impact on the development of the situation”. Also read | Trump says he and Putin 'largely' agreed on Ukraine land swaps, claims war 'pretty close to the end' but Kyiv needs to 'make a deal' Zelensky says he's ready for ‘trilateral’ meet In the lengthy X post, the leader of war-torn Ukraine also said that his nation was ready for a trilateral meeting with Russia and the United States. “We support President Trump’s proposal for a trilateral meeting between Ukraine, the USA, and Russia. Ukraine emphasises that key issues can be discussed at the level of leaders, and a trilateral format is suitable for this.”

Donald Trump called Volodymyr Zelensky from Air Force One after the Alaska summit with Vladimir Putin, briefing him on the “main points” of his talks with the Russian leader. Zelensky has also backed Trump's proposal for a ‘trilateral meeting between Ukraine, the USA, and Russia’.&nbsp;

Ukrainian President Zelensky voices support for 'trilateral' meeting with US and Russia after ‘lengthy call’ with Trump

Melania Trump, the wife of US President Donald Trump, on Friday (Au 15) raised the plight of Ukrainian and Russian children in a letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to reports. The letter, as per a Reuters report citing two White House officials, was hand-delivered to Putin by Trump as the two presidents met in Alaska for talks over the Ukraine war. Melania herself was not a part of the Alaska trip.<h2>What did Melania say in her letter?</h2>The contents of Melania Trump's letter have not been disclosed. It was reported that it repeatedly emphasised that the removal of thousands of Ukrainian children from their country without the approval of their parents or guardians was a war crime.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-he-and-putin-largely-agreed-on-ukraine-land-swaps-us-security-guarantees-1755314323946">Trump says he and Putin 'largely' agreed on Ukraine land swaps, claims war 'pretty close to the end' but Ukraine needs to 'make&nbsp;a&nbsp;deal'</a><h2>Ukraine's 'lost children'</h2>The abduction of Ukrainian children by Russian forces has been a deeply sensitive issue for Kyiv. Ukraine has accused Russia of illegally carrying out the forced deportation of thousands of Ukrainian children. Russia has, however, denied the "abduction" allegation and says they were transported for their own safety and to save them from the horrors of the war.As per Kyiv, hundreds of thousands of children have been taken to Russia or Russian-occupied Crimea since the beginning of the invasion. The war-torn nation has alleged that many of these children have reportedly been placed in institutions and foster homes.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-putin-alaska-summit-ends-without-peace-deal-here-s-what-they-said-at-the-no-questions-press-conference-1755309067551">Trump–Putin Alaska summit ends without peace deal — here's what they said at the 'no-questions' press conference</a>The Alaska summit was the first time Putin, who faces an international arrest warrant, set foot on Western soil since ordering the invasion of Ukraine. In March 2023, the International Criminal Court announced an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin over the war crime of unlawfully deporting Ukrainian children. At the time, another warrant on similar charges was also issued for Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia's presidential commissioner for children's rights. Reports claim that amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Moscow has "stolen" thousands of Ukrainian children and has subjected them to "Russification".Russia has vehemently denied these allegations. Moreover, given that Russia is not a member of the ICC, the country has dismissed the validity of the arrest warrant and calls it "void".Watch | Trump-Putin Meet: Trump &amp; Putin Wrap Up 3-Hour High-Stakes Meeting <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-putin-meet-trump-putin-wrap-up-3-hour-high-stakes-meeting-1755314061673/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-putin-meet-trump-putin-wrap-up-3-hour-high-stakes-meeting-1755314061673/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Melania Trump sent a letter to Vladimir Putin, delivered by President Trump at the Alaska summit, raising concern over the deportation of Ukrainian children. Reports say the letter stressed such removals were a war crime, a charge Russia denies despite an ICC arrest warrant against Putin.

Melania Trump, the wife of US President Donald Trump, on Friday (Au 15) raised the plight of Ukrainian and Russian children in a letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to reports. The letter, as per a Reuters report citing two White House officials, was hand-delivered to Putin by Trump as the two presidents met in Alaska for talks over the Ukraine war. Melania herself was not a part of the Alaska trip. What did Melania say in her letter? The contents of Melania Trump's letter have not been disclosed. It was reported that it repeatedly emphasised that the removal of thousands of Ukrainian children from their country without the approval of their parents or guardians was a war crime. Also read | Trump says he and Putin 'largely' agreed on Ukraine land swaps, claims war 'pretty close to the end' but Ukraine needs to 'make a deal' Ukraine's 'lost children' The abduction of Ukrainian children by Russian forces has been a deeply sensitive issue for Kyiv. Ukraine has accused Russia of illegally carrying out the forced deportation of thousands of Ukrainian children. Russia has, however, denied the "abduction" allegation and says they were transported for their own safety and to save them from the horrors of the war. As per Kyiv, hundreds of thousands of children have been taken to Russia or Russian-occupied Crimea since the beginning of the invasion. The war-torn nation has alleged that many of these children have reportedly been placed in institutions and foster homes. Also read | Trump–Putin Alaska summit ends without peace deal — here's what they said at the 'no-questions' press conference The Alaska summit was the first time Putin, who faces an international arrest warrant, set foot on Western soil since ordering the invasion of Ukraine. In March 2023, the International Criminal Court announced an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin over the war crime of unlawfully deporting Ukrainian children. At the time, another warrant on similar charges was also issued for Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia's presidential commissioner for children's rights. Reports claim that amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Moscow has "stolen" thousands of Ukrainian children and has subjected them to "Russification". Russia has vehemently denied these allegations. Moreover, given that Russia is not a member of the ICC, the country has dismissed the validity of the arrest warrant and calls it "void". Watch | Trump-Putin Meet: Trump & Putin Wrap Up 3-Hour High-Stakes Meeting https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-putin-meet-trump-putin-wrap-up-3-hour-high-stakes-meeting-1755314061673/embed

Melania Trump sent a letter to Vladimir Putin, delivered by President Trump at the Alaska summit, raising concern over the deportation of Ukrainian children. Reports say the letter stressed such removals were a war crime, a charge Russia denies despite an ICC arrest warrant against Putin.

Melania Trump sent Putin letter on Ukraine’s ‘stolen children’ during Alaska summit. What did she say? All we know

Amid several world leaders backing US President Donald Trump's public campaign for a Nobel Peace Prize, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in a recent podcast appearance, said she would support Trump for the coveted prize if he were able to negotiate an end to Russia-Ukraine war and tell Putin that there can't be an exchange&nbsp;of territory.&nbsp;“If he could end it without putting Ukraine in a position where it had to concede its territory to the aggressor, had to, in a way, validate Putin’s vision of greater Russia, but instead could really stand up to Putin, to make it clear there must be a ceasefire,” she said on the “Raging Moderates” podcast .&nbsp;“If President Trump were the architect of that, I’d nominate him for a Nobel Peace Prize," she further said.&nbsp;What did Trump say&nbsp;After the remark made by Hillary, US President Donald Trump responded by saying he might "have to start liking" his former political rival.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-brushes-off-question-about-civilian-killings-in-ukraine-trump-criticised-for-red-carpet-welcome-to-war-criminal-watch-1755302259384">Putin brushes off question about civilian killings in Ukraine; Trump smirks. Watch!</a>&nbsp;When American journalist Bret Baier aboard Air Force One, pointed to Clinton’s remarks that she would nominate Trump if he were able to negotiate an end to Russia-Ukraine war, Trump said "Well, that was very nice," Trump said. "I may have to start liking her again."&nbsp;Recently, Armenia and Azerbaijani joined the list of countries putting their weight behind US president Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize. Some other countries to have backed Trump for the coveted prize are Israel, Cambodia and Pakistan.&nbsp;Trump-Putin Alaska talk ends&nbsp;Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin's much-anticipated meeting in Anchorage, Alaska, ended on Friday (Aug 15) with no apparent breakthrough on Ukraine. The two leaders seemed to be rekindling their friendship, but after three hour-long talks, as they faced the press, they didn't take any questions, instead choosing to only issue statements in the 12-minute-long press conference.

Recently, Armenia and Azerbaijani joined the list of countries putting their weight behind US President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Amid several world leaders backing US President Donald Trump's public campaign for a Nobel Peace Prize, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in a recent podcast appearance, said she would support Trump for the coveted prize if he were able to negotiate an end to Russia-Ukraine war and tell Putin that there can't be an exchange of territory. “If he could end it without putting Ukraine in a position where it had to concede its territory to the aggressor, had to, in a way, validate Putin’s vision of greater Russia, but instead could really stand up to Putin, to make it clear there must be a ceasefire,” she said on the “Raging Moderates” podcast . “If President Trump were the architect of that, I’d nominate him for a Nobel Peace Prize," she further said. What did Trump say After the remark made by Hillary, US President Donald Trump responded by saying he might "have to start liking" his former political rival. Also Read: Putin brushes off question about civilian killings in Ukraine; Trump smirks. Watch! When American journalist Bret Baier aboard Air Force One, pointed to Clinton’s remarks that she would nominate Trump if he were able to negotiate an end to Russia-Ukraine war, Trump said "Well, that was very nice," Trump said. "I may have to start liking her again." Recently, Armenia and Azerbaijani joined the list of countries putting their weight behind US president Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize. Some other countries to have backed Trump for the coveted prize are Israel, Cambodia and Pakistan. Trump-Putin Alaska talk ends Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin's much-anticipated meeting in Anchorage, Alaska, ended on Friday (Aug 15) with no apparent breakthrough on Ukraine. The two leaders seemed to be rekindling their friendship, but after three hour-long talks, as they faced the press, they didn't take any questions, instead choosing to only issue statements in the 12-minute-long press conference.

Recently, Armenia and Azerbaijani joined the list of countries putting their weight behind US President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Rivalry ending? Trump says he might 'start liking' Hillary Clinton after Nobel Peace Prize 'backing'

Russian President Vladimir Putin, after his meeting with US President Donald Trump in Alaska, said on Friday (Aug 15) that the conflict in Ukraine would not have started if Trump had been the President of the United States in 2022. He made the remarks at the joint press conference following the two leaders held talks on the war in Ukraine. This echoes the US president’s claim that he would have prevented the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which started during the term of former president Joe Biden.&nbsp;Following the meeting in Alaska, Putin said that he had tried to convince Biden not to make the situation escalate to a point of “serious consequences in the form of military actions.”&nbsp;“I would like to remind you, that in 2022, during our last contact with the previous administration, I tried to convince my previous American colleague, the situation should not be brought to the point of no return when it would come to hostilities, and I said it quite directly back then, that it was a big mistake,” he said.&nbsp;Reiterating the US president’s claim that there would have been no war if Trump were the president, Putin said, “When President Trump is saying that if he was the president back then, there will be no war — and I’m quite sure that it would indeed be, so I can confirm that.”&nbsp;He added, “President Trump and I established a very good, businesslike and trusting contact. And I have every reason to believe that by moving along this path, we can reach - and the sooner, the better - the end of the conflict in Ukraine.”&nbsp;Thanking Trump for his cooperation and “friendly tone of conversation,” the Russian president said that the past had been difficult for US-Russia relations, adding that it was necessary to “rectify the situation.”&nbsp;Putin further said that the next meeting would take place in Moscow, adding, “We hope that Kyiv and the European capitals will perceive all of this in a constructive manner and will not create any obstacles or attempt to disrupt the nascent progress through provocation or behind-the-scenes intrigue.”&nbsp;The statement was echoed by Trump, who said the two leaders had a “very productive meeting,” which lasted about three hours. While no deal on a ceasefire in Ukraine was reached during the talks, Trump said “many, many points” were agreed on, with only a few major sticking points remaining. He added that he would call NATO and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to brief them on what was discussed in the meeting.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (Aug 15) reiterated US President’s claim that there would be no war if Donald Trump had been the POTUS in 2022, when Joe Biden was in office.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, after his meeting with US President Donald Trump in Alaska, said on Friday (Aug 15) that the conflict in Ukraine would not have started if Trump had been the President of the United States in 2022. He made the remarks at the joint press conference following the two leaders held talks on the war in Ukraine. This echoes the US president’s claim that he would have prevented the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which started during the term of former president Joe Biden. Following the meeting in Alaska, Putin said that he had tried to convince Biden not to make the situation escalate to a point of “serious consequences in the form of military actions.” “I would like to remind you, that in 2022, during our last contact with the previous administration, I tried to convince my previous American colleague, the situation should not be brought to the point of no return when it would come to hostilities, and I said it quite directly back then, that it was a big mistake,” he said. Reiterating the US president’s claim that there would have been no war if Trump were the president, Putin said, “When President Trump is saying that if he was the president back then, there will be no war — and I’m quite sure that it would indeed be, so I can confirm that.” He added, “President Trump and I established a very good, businesslike and trusting contact. And I have every reason to believe that by moving along this path, we can reach - and the sooner, the better - the end of the conflict in Ukraine.” Thanking Trump for his cooperation and “friendly tone of conversation,” the Russian president said that the past had been difficult for US-Russia relations, adding that it was necessary to “rectify the situation.” Putin further said that the next meeting would take place in Moscow, adding, “We hope that Kyiv and the European capitals will perceive all of this in a constructive manner and will not create any obstacles or attempt to disrupt the nascent progress through provocation or behind-the-scenes intrigue.” The statement was echoed by Trump, who said the two leaders had a “very productive meeting,” which lasted about three hours. While no deal on a ceasefire in Ukraine was reached during the talks, Trump said “many, many points” were agreed on, with only a few major sticking points remaining. He added that he would call NATO and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to brief them on what was discussed in the meeting.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (Aug 15) reiterated US President’s claim that there would be no war if Donald Trump had been the POTUS in 2022, when Joe Biden was in office.

‘If Trump were president, there’d be no war’: Putin echoes POTUS’s claim, slams Biden after Alaska meet

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Aug 15) said that he may have to think about tariffs on Russian oil buyers “in two or three weeks” following his meeting with President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. This comes after Trump threatened to impose sanctions on Moscow and secondary sanctions on nations that buy its oil if no progress is made in negotiations to end the war in Ukraine. Last week, the US president imposed additional 25 per cent tariffs on India, citing its continued purchase of Russian oil.&nbsp;Following the Alaska Summit, during which he met with Putin to discuss an agreement on a ceasefire in Ukraine, Trump said that he did not immediately need to consider retaliatory tariffs on countries for buying Russian oil, adding that he might have to think about it “in two or three weeks.”&nbsp;Trump has not imposed any sanctions or tariffs on China, the largest buyer of Russian oil, for similar reasons. When asked whether he was considering such actions against Beijing, after no agreement was announced by the two leaders following the meeting, Trump said, “Well, because of what happened today, I think I don’t have to think about that.”&nbsp;“Now, I may have to think about it in two weeks or three weeks or something, but we don't have to think about that right now. I think, you know, the meeting went very well,” Trump said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a> | No tariffs on Russian partners for now, says <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DonaldTrump?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DonaldTrump</a>. Tariffs on Russian oil buyers not needed for now, says the US President after meet with Putin. <a href="https://twitter.com/BislaDiksha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BislaDiksha</a> explains. <a href="https://t.co/eGniRwT91v">pic.twitter.com/eGniRwT91v</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1956544427310375364?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Russia ‘lost oil client’ India</h2>&nbsp;During an interview with Fox News aboard Air Force One on his way to Alaska on Thursday (Aug 14), the US president said that Russia lost its “oil client” – India, when asked if there was any economic side to his Russian counterpart agreeing to hold a meeting.&nbsp;“Well, they lost an oil client so to speak, which is India, which was doing about 40 per cent of the oil, China as you know is doing a lot...and If I did secondary sanctions, it would be devastating from their standpoint.. If I have to do it, I’ll do it, may be I won’t have to do it,” Trump said.&nbsp;Meanwhile, India said that it has not halted its oil purchase from Russia following Trump’s tariff threats and continues to buy over economic considerations. &nbsp;

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Aug 15) said that he has to think about tariffs on Russian oil buyers following his meeting with President Vladimir Putin in Alaska.

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Aug 15) said that he may have to think about tariffs on Russian oil buyers “in two or three weeks” following his meeting with President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. This comes after Trump threatened to impose sanctions on Moscow and secondary sanctions on nations that buy its oil if no progress is made in negotiations to end the war in Ukraine. Last week, the US president imposed additional 25 per cent tariffs on India, citing its continued purchase of Russian oil. Following the Alaska Summit, during which he met with Putin to discuss an agreement on a ceasefire in Ukraine, Trump said that he did not immediately need to consider retaliatory tariffs on countries for buying Russian oil, adding that he might have to think about it “in two or three weeks.” Trump has not imposed any sanctions or tariffs on China, the largest buyer of Russian oil, for similar reasons. When asked whether he was considering such actions against Beijing, after no agreement was announced by the two leaders following the meeting, Trump said, “Well, because of what happened today, I think I don’t have to think about that.” “Now, I may have to think about it in two weeks or three weeks or something, but we don't have to think about that right now. I think, you know, the meeting went very well,” Trump said.

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Aug 15) said that he has to think about tariffs on Russian oil buyers following his meeting with President Vladimir Putin in Alaska.

Trump to reconsider tariffs on India? US president says ‘have to think’ about trade duties on Russian oil buyers

US President Donald Trump's and Russian President Vladimir Putin's much-anticipated meeting in Anchorage, Alaska, ended on Friday (Aug 15) with no apparent breakthrough on Ukraine. The two leaders seemed to be rekindling their friendship, but after three hour-long talks, as they faced the press, they didn't take any questions, instead choosing to only issue statements in the 12-minute-long press conference. Here's all they said in the press conference that concluded the vital Alaska summit.Key takeaways from the Trump-Putin Alaska press briefing.<h2>“Constructive”, “productive” talks, but no peace deal</h2>Even though Trump and Putin ended their Alaska summit on Friday without a ceasefire deal for Ukraine, both leaders described their talks as "constructive" and "productive." Appearing before reporters for what the White House billed as a joint press conference, they took no questions, ignoring repeated shouts from journalists.&nbsp;Putin said that the "negotiations have been held in a constructive atmosphere of mutual respect". The statement was echoed by Trump, who said, "I believe we had a very productive meeting."<h2>What did Putin say about Ukraine?</h2>Russian President Putin avoided direct discussion or questions on Ukraine's battlefield situation. He said that he hoped that the Alaska meeting would be "the starting point," for the "solution of the Ukrainian issue, but also will help us bring back business-like and pragmatic relations between Russia and the US."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-brushes-off-question-about-civilian-killings-in-ukraine-trump-criticised-for-red-carpet-welcome-to-war-criminal-watch-1755302259384">Putin dodges question on civilian killings in Ukraine; Trump smirks. Watch!</a>Putin said Moscow expected "that Kyiv and the European capitals will perceive all this in a constructive manner and will not create any obstacles". He also warned against "attempts to disrupt the emerging progress through provocation or behind-the-scenes intrigues."<h2>What did Trump say about Ukraine?</h2>Trump claimed that he and Putin have "made some headway" on the Ukraine issue but insisted that "there's no deal until there's a deal".He said that Putin wants peace. "We're going to stop, really, 5, 6, 7 thousand, 1000s of people a week from being killed, and President Putin wants to see that as much as I do."The US President, however, left the peace deal negotiations up to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, saying that he will brief him and NATO about "today's meeting"."It's ultimately up to them. They're going to have to agree with what Marco and Steve and some of the great people from the Trump administration"."So just to put it very quickly, I'm going to start making a few phone calls and tell them what happened. But we had an extremely productive meeting, and many points were agreed to."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-brushes-off-question-about-civilian-killings-in-ukraine-trump-criticised-for-red-carpet-welcome-to-war-criminal-watch-1755302259384">Putin brushes off question about civilian killings in Ukraine; Trump smirks. Watch!</a><h2>Putin attempts to flatter Trump, touts US-Russia shared history</h2>In his statement, Putin sought to emphasise the shared history between the US and Russia, including Alaska's Russian heritage and cooperation during World War II. He said the two nations should "turn the page" and return to cooperation, adding that he hoped agreements reached in Alaska would help pave the way to peace in Ukraine."It is symbolic that, not far away from here, the border between Russia and the US, there was a so-called International Date Line. I think you can step over, literally, from yesterday into tomorrow, and I hope that's- will succeed in that, in the political sphere."<h2>Did Trump-Putin make any deals?</h2>While no deal was reached on a ceasefire in Ukraine, Trump said "many, many points" were agreed on, with only a few major sticking points remaining."There were many, many points that we agreed on, most of them, I would say, a couple of big ones that we haven't quite gotten there, but we've made some headway," said Trump, adding, "There's no deal until there's a deal.""I will call up NATO in a little while, I will call up the various people that I think are appropriate, and I'll of course, call up President Zelenskyy and tell him about today's meeting."<h2>Putin, Trump to meet again?</h2>The summit marked the first US–Russia leaders' meeting in four years. It happened as the Ukraine war entered its third year and as relations between the US and Russia reached their lowest point since the Cold War.After the talks, both men signalled willingness to meet again, with Putin inviting Trump to Moscow. "Next time in Moscow," Putin told Trump in English after the US president thanked him and said he would "probably see you again very soon.""Oh, that's an interesting one," Trump responded. "I'll get a little heat on that one, but I could see it possibly happening." &nbsp;

Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin wrapped up their much-hyped Alaska summit with no ceasefire deal for Ukraine. After three hours of closed-door talks, the leaders avoided questions, delivering carefully worded statements at the press conference. Here are the highlights.

US President Donald Trump's and Russian President Vladimir Putin's much-anticipated meeting in Anchorage, Alaska, ended on Friday (Aug 15) with no apparent breakthrough on Ukraine. The two leaders seemed to be rekindling their friendship, but after three hour-long talks, as they faced the press, they didn't take any questions, instead choosing to only issue statements in the 12-minute-long press conference. Here's all they said in the press conference that concluded the vital Alaska summit. Key takeaways from the Trump-Putin Alaska press briefing. “Constructive”, “productive” talks, but no peace deal Even though Trump and Putin ended their Alaska summit on Friday without a ceasefire deal for Ukraine, both leaders described their talks as "constructive" and "productive." Appearing before reporters for what the White House billed as a joint press conference, they took no questions, ignoring repeated shouts from journalists. Putin said that the "negotiations have been held in a constructive atmosphere of mutual respect". The statement was echoed by Trump, who said, "I believe we had a very productive meeting." What did Putin say about Ukraine? Russian President Putin avoided direct discussion or questions on Ukraine's battlefield situation. He said that he hoped that the Alaska meeting would be "the starting point," for the "solution of the Ukrainian issue, but also will help us bring back business-like and pragmatic relations between Russia and the US." Also read | Putin dodges question on civilian killings in Ukraine; Trump smirks. Watch! Putin said Moscow expected "that Kyiv and the European capitals will perceive all this in a constructive manner and will not create any obstacles". He also warned against "attempts to disrupt the emerging progress through provocation or behind-the-scenes intrigues." What did Trump say about Ukraine? Trump claimed that he and Putin have "made some headway" on the Ukraine issue but insisted that "there's no deal until there's a deal". He said that Putin wants peace. "We're going to stop, really, 5, 6, 7 thousand, 1000s of people a week from being killed, and President Putin wants to see that as much as I do." The US President, however, left the peace deal negotiations up to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, saying that he will brief him and NATO about "today's meeting". "It's ultimately up to them. They're going to have to agree with what Marco and Steve and some of the great people from the Trump administration". "So just to put it very quickly, I'm going to start making a few phone calls and tell them what happened. But we had an extremely productive meeting, and many points were agreed to." Also read | Putin brushes off question about civilian killings in Ukraine; Trump smirks. Watch! Putin attempts to flatter Trump, touts US-Russia shared history In his statement, Putin sought to emphasise the shared history between the US and Russia, including Alaska's Russian heritage and cooperation during World War II. He said the two nations should "turn the page" and return to cooperation, adding that he hoped agreements reached in Alaska would help pave the way to peace in Ukraine. "It is symbolic that, not far away from here, the border between Russia and the US, there was a so-called International Date Line. I think you can step over, literally, from yesterday into tomorrow, and I hope that's- will succeed in that, in the political sphere." Did Trump-Putin make any deals? While no deal was reached on a ceasefire in Ukraine, Trump said "many, many points" were agreed on, with only a few major sticking points remaining. "There were many, many points that we agreed on, most of them, I would say, a couple of big ones that we haven't quite gotten there, but we've made some headway," said Trump, adding, "There's no deal until there's a deal." "I will call up NATO in a little while, I will call up the various people that I think are appropriate, and I'll of course, call up President Zelenskyy and tell him about today's meeting." Putin, Trump to meet again? The summit marked the first US–Russia leaders' meeting in four years. It happened as the Ukraine war entered its third year and as relations between the US and Russia reached their lowest point since the Cold War. After the talks, both men signalled willingness to meet again, with Putin inviting Trump to Moscow. "Next time in Moscow," Putin told Trump in English after the US president thanked him and said he would "probably see you again very soon." "Oh, that's an interesting one," Trump responded. "I'll get a little heat on that one, but I could see it possibly happening."

Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin wrapped up their much-hyped Alaska summit with no ceasefire deal for Ukraine. After three hours of closed-door talks, the leaders avoided questions, delivering carefully worded statements at the press conference. Here are the highlights.

Trump–Putin Alaska summit ends without peace deal — here's what they said at the 'no-questions' press conference

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (Aug 15) displayed a wide range of expressions as, during a media interaction alongside US President Donald Trump in Alaska, he was questioned on civilian killings in Ukraine. Faced with pointed questions, the Russian leader was seen reacting animatedly, even as he pretended not to be able to hear or understand the questions. Videos of the moment are now going viral.<h2>What happened?</h2>Sitting under a banner emblazoned with the words -- written only in English -- "Pursuing Peace", the Russian president faced a barrage of questions, including on the reports of civilian killings in Ukraine. Grinning widely, Putin appeared to be joking with reporters as he and Trump met in Anchorage, Alaska. Videos of the interaction are going viral on social media. Watch it here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Russian President Vladimir Putin showed a wide range of facial expressions as he reacted to questions from journalists during his meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Putin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Putin</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DonaldTrump?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DonaldTrump</a> <a href="https://t.co/N1KWxisHfl">pic.twitter.com/N1KWxisHfl</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1956476202304020654?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-brushes-off-question-about-civilian-killings-in-ukraine-trump-criticised-for-red-carpet-welcome-to-war-criminal-watch-1755302259384">Putin dodges question on civilian killings in Ukraine; Trump smirks. Watch!</a>Putin faced immediate questioning about the war when a reporter loudly and repeatedly yelled, "When will you stop killing civilians?" However, the Russian president did not react and brushed off the question.&nbsp;<h2>Trump rolls out the red carpet for Putin's welcome</h2>On X, netizens were quick to slam Trump for rolling out the red carpet for Putin. One user, posting a video of the pair's interaction at the Elmendorf Air Base, said, “This will be remembered as one of the most disgraceful moments in US presidential history.” Slamming the "literal red carpet the Trump administration rolled out for" a "war criminal".&nbsp;This was the first time Putin, who faces an international arrest warrant, set foot on Western soil since ordering the invasion of Ukraine. The warrant has been issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for the Russian president's role in the alleged forced deportation of Ukrainian children. Reports claim that amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Moscow has "stolen" thousands of Ukrainian children and has subjected them to "Russification".According to Kyiv, more than 16,000 Ukrainian children have been deported to Russia since the start of Moscow's offensive in February 2022. The war-torn nation has alleged that many of these children have reportedly been placed in institutions and foster homes.Russia has vehemently denied these allegations. Additionally, given that Russia is not a member of the ICC, the country has dismissed the validity of the arrest warrant and called it "void". &nbsp;

Putin, seated beside Trump at the Alaska summit under a "Pursuing Peace" banner, dodged questions on civilian killings in Ukraine with animated expressions and grins. Clips of the exchange are now viral on social media. Watch it here.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (Aug 15) displayed a wide range of expressions as, during a media interaction alongside US President Donald Trump in Alaska, he was questioned on civilian killings in Ukraine. Faced with pointed questions, the Russian leader was seen reacting animatedly, even as he pretended not to be able to hear or understand the questions. Videos of the moment are now going viral. What happened? Sitting under a banner emblazoned with the words -- written only in English -- "Pursuing Peace", the Russian president faced a barrage of questions, including on the reports of civilian killings in Ukraine. Grinning widely, Putin appeared to be joking with reporters as he and Trump met in Anchorage, Alaska. Videos of the interaction are going viral on social media. Watch it here:

Putin, seated beside Trump at the Alaska summit under a "Pursuing Peace" banner, dodged questions on civilian killings in Ukraine with animated expressions and grins. Clips of the exchange are now viral on social media. Watch it here.

'Pursuing Peace'? Putin grins, laughs off Ukraine civilian deaths question — watch viral video

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Moscow of continuing its attacks and showing no intent to end the war, just hours before US President Donald Trump meets Russian leader Vladimir Putin in Alaska. “There is no order, nor any signals from Moscow that it is preparing to end this war… they are also killing on the day of the negotiations,” Zelensky said in a video message shared on social media.<h2>Ukraine places hopes on Washington’s role</h2>Zelensky said Kyiv will be “counting on America” during the high-stakes summit, which he views as a potential stepping stone to a future three-way meeting involving Ukraine, the US and Russia. “The key thing is that this meeting should open up a real path toward a just peace and a substantive discussion between leaders in a trilateral format – Ukraine, the United States, and the Russian side,” he said.“It is time to end the war, and the necessary steps must be taken by Russia. We are counting on America. We are ready, as always, to work as productively as possible.” The Ukrainian president added that he was awaiting an intelligence assessment on “the current intentions of the Russian side and its preparations for the meeting in Alaska.”<h2>Fighting intensifies in Donetsk region</h2>Zelensky also reported heavy clashes in the eastern Donetsk region, where Ukrainian forces are resisting Russian attempts to advance near Pokrovsk. He said Kyiv had moved to strengthen the defence of Dobropillia and surrounding areas, noting that “the Russian army continues to suffer significant losses in its attempts to secure more favourable political positions for the Russian leadership at the meeting&nbsp;in&nbsp;Alaska.”<h2>Trump-Putin meet in Alaska today</h2>US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are set to meet today in Anchorage, Alaska, at 3:30 p.m. ET. The US president will personally welcome Putin when his plane lands in Alaska on Friday, the Kremlin confirmed. “At exactly 11:00 local time (1900 GMT), the president is scheduled to land. President Trump will meet him at the plane,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told state media.

President Zelensky accused Moscow of continuing attacks ahead of the Trump-Putin summit, saying there’s no sign Russia wants peace. He added that Kyiv is “counting on America” for support.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Moscow of continuing its attacks and showing no intent to end the war, just hours before US President Donald Trump meets Russian leader Vladimir Putin in Alaska. “There is no order, nor any signals from Moscow that it is preparing to end this war… they are also killing on the day of the negotiations,” Zelensky said in a video message shared on social media. Ukraine places hopes on Washington’s role Zelensky said Kyiv will be “counting on America” during the high-stakes summit, which he views as a potential stepping stone to a future three-way meeting involving Ukraine, the US and Russia. “The key thing is that this meeting should open up a real path toward a just peace and a substantive discussion between leaders in a trilateral format – Ukraine, the United States, and the Russian side,” he said. “It is time to end the war, and the necessary steps must be taken by Russia. We are counting on America. We are ready, as always, to work as productively as possible.” The Ukrainian president added that he was awaiting an intelligence assessment on “the current intentions of the Russian side and its preparations for the meeting in Alaska.” Fighting intensifies in Donetsk region Zelensky also reported heavy clashes in the eastern Donetsk region, where Ukrainian forces are resisting Russian attempts to advance near Pokrovsk. He said Kyiv had moved to strengthen the defence of Dobropillia and surrounding areas, noting that “the Russian army continues to suffer significant losses in its attempts to secure more favourable political positions for the Russian leadership at the meeting in Alaska.” Trump-Putin meet in Alaska today US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are set to meet today in Anchorage, Alaska, at 3:30 p.m. ET. The US president will personally welcome Putin when his plane lands in Alaska on Friday, the Kremlin confirmed. “At exactly 11:00 local time (1900 GMT), the president is scheduled to land. President Trump will meet him at the plane,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told state media.

President Zelensky accused Moscow of continuing attacks ahead of the Trump-Putin summit, saying there’s no sign Russia wants peace. He added that Kyiv is “counting on America” for support.

‘Moscow still killing on day of Trump-Putin meeting’: Zelensky says Russia 'doesn't want to end war'; Kyiv is ‘counting on America’

US President Donald Trump will personally welcome Russian President Vladimir Putin when his plane lands in Alaska on Friday, the Kremlin confirmed. “At exactly 11:00 local time (1900 GMT), the president is scheduled to land. President Trump will meet him at the plane,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told state media. The two leaders are set to begin formal talks at 3:30 p.m. ET (11:30 a.m. local time).<h2>Ukraine’s future on the agenda</h2>Asked if territorial swaps are being considered, Trump said, “They will be discussed, but I’ve got to let Ukraine make that decision, and I think they’ll make a proper decision. But I’m not here to negotiate for Ukraine.” He added that if he were not president, “Putin would take all of Ukraine, but he’s not going to do it.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-it-will-be-very-severe-trump-issues-stark-warning-for-putin-ahead-of-meet-what-will-he-do-if-russia-doesn-t-engage-in-serious-talks-1755266004756">'It will be very severe': Trump issues stark warning for Putin ahead of meet - What will he do if Russia doesn't engage in serious talks</a>When questioned on whether the US might offer security guarantees for Ukraine, Trump said “maybe” and spoke of a “possibility” involving “Europe and other countries,” but not through NATO. On potential economic discussions, he said they would happen “if we make progress.”<h2>Warning of “very severe consequences” for Russia</h2>Trump has warned of “very severe consequences” if Putin refuses to engage seriously on ending the war. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is not part of the Alaska meeting but could join later if a trilateral summit is organised, possibly involving European leaders.<h2>Zelensky calls meeting “high stakes”</h2>Zelensky described the talks as “high stakes” and said Ukraine is “counting on America” to push for a fair resolution. “The key thing is that this meeting should open up a real path toward a just peace and a substantive discussion between leaders in a trilateral format, Ukraine, the United States, and the Russian side,” Zelensky said.“It is time to end the war, and the necessary steps must be taken by Russia. We are counting on America. We are ready, as always, to work as productively as possible,” he added. Zelensky also said he was awaiting an intelligence briefing on Russia’s intentions ahead of the Alaska talks.

President Trump will greet Putin in Alaska ahead of key talks on Ukraine. Trump ruled out NATO guarantees, hinted at economic discussions, and stressed Ukraine must decide on any territorial changes.

US President Donald Trump will personally welcome Russian President Vladimir Putin when his plane lands in Alaska on Friday, the Kremlin confirmed. “At exactly 11:00 local time (1900 GMT), the president is scheduled to land. President Trump will meet him at the plane,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told state media. The two leaders are set to begin formal talks at 3:30 p.m. ET (11:30 a.m. local time). Ukraine’s future on the agenda Asked if territorial swaps are being considered, Trump said, “They will be discussed, but I’ve got to let Ukraine make that decision, and I think they’ll make a proper decision. But I’m not here to negotiate for Ukraine.” He added that if he were not president, “Putin would take all of Ukraine, but he’s not going to do it.” Also read: 'It will be very severe': Trump issues stark warning for Putin ahead of meet - What will he do if Russia doesn't engage in serious talks When questioned on whether the US might offer security guarantees for Ukraine, Trump said “maybe” and spoke of a “possibility” involving “Europe and other countries,” but not through NATO. On potential economic discussions, he said they would happen “if we make progress.” Warning of “very severe consequences” for Russia Trump has warned of “very severe consequences” if Putin refuses to engage seriously on ending the war. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is not part of the Alaska meeting but could join later if a trilateral summit is organised, possibly involving European leaders. Zelensky calls meeting “high stakes” Zelensky described the talks as “high stakes” and said Ukraine is “counting on America” to push for a fair resolution. “The key thing is that this meeting should open up a real path toward a just peace and a substantive discussion between leaders in a trilateral format, Ukraine, the United States, and the Russian side,” Zelensky said. “It is time to end the war, and the necessary steps must be taken by Russia. We are counting on America. We are ready, as always, to work as productively as possible,” he added. Zelensky also said he was awaiting an intelligence briefing on Russia’s intentions ahead of the Alaska talks.

President Trump will greet Putin in Alaska ahead of key talks on Ukraine. Trump ruled out NATO guarantees, hinted at economic discussions, and stressed Ukraine must decide on any territorial changes.

Trump-Putin meet: US president to 'formally welcome' Russian president at his plane in Alaska for 'high stakes' Ukraine talks

US President Donald Trump is on his way to Anchorage, Alaska, for a high-stakes meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin, in what Washington hopes could mark a turning point in efforts to end the war in Ukraine. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump confirmed that Russia could face tough new measures if it refuses to engage in serious talks. “Economically severe. It will be very severe. I’m not doing this for my health, okay, I don’t need it. I’d like to focus on our country, but I’m doing this to save a lot of lives. Yeah, very severe,” Trump said.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-putin-meet-ukraine-trump-says-there-will-be-no-decisions-on-ukraine-s-territory-without-ukraine-ahead-of-meeting-with-putin-1755264006195">'Putin wanted all of Ukraine': Trump says there will be NO decisions on Ukraine's territory without Ukraine ahead of meeting with Putin</a><h2>Summit goal is to get both sides talking</h2>Trump said the purpose of the Alaska summit was “to get them at table” and stressed that no decisions on Ukraine’s territory would be made without Ukraine’s consent. “They’ll be discussed, but I’ve got to let Ukraine make that decision, and I think they’ll make a proper decision, but I’m not here to negotiate for Ukraine. I’m here to get them at a table,” he told reporters.The President claimed that without his leadership, Putin would have already taken over all of Ukraine. “Look, Vladimir Putin wanted to take all of Ukraine. If I wasn’t president, he would, right now, be taking all of Ukraine, but he’s not going to do it,” he added.<h2>Trump’s view on Russia’s offensive</h2>Commenting on Moscow’s continued military push, Trump suggested it was part of Putin’s negotiating tactics. “I think they’re trying to negotiate. He’s trying to set a stage. In his mind, that helps him make a better deal,” Trump said. “It actually hurts him, but in his mind that helps him make a better deal if they can continue the killing. Maybe it’s a part of the world, maybe it’s just his fabric, his genes, his genetics … but I’ll be talking to him about it,” he added.

President Trump is heading to Alaska for critical talks with Putin, warning of “economically severe” consequences if Russia avoids serious negotiations aimed at ending the war in Ukraine.

US President Donald Trump is on his way to Anchorage, Alaska, for a high-stakes meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin, in what Washington hopes could mark a turning point in efforts to end the war in Ukraine. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump confirmed that Russia could face tough new measures if it refuses to engage in serious talks. “Economically severe. It will be very severe. I’m not doing this for my health, okay, I don’t need it. I’d like to focus on our country, but I’m doing this to save a lot of lives. Yeah, very severe,” Trump said. Also read: 'Putin wanted all of Ukraine': Trump says there will be NO decisions on Ukraine's territory without Ukraine ahead of meeting with Putin Summit goal is to get both sides talking Trump said the purpose of the Alaska summit was “to get them at table” and stressed that no decisions on Ukraine’s territory would be made without Ukraine’s consent. “They’ll be discussed, but I’ve got to let Ukraine make that decision, and I think they’ll make a proper decision, but I’m not here to negotiate for Ukraine. I’m here to get them at a table,” he told reporters. The President claimed that without his leadership, Putin would have already taken over all of Ukraine. “Look, Vladimir Putin wanted to take all of Ukraine. If I wasn’t president, he would, right now, be taking all of Ukraine, but he’s not going to do it,” he added. Trump’s view on Russia’s offensive Commenting on Moscow’s continued military push, Trump suggested it was part of Putin’s negotiating tactics. “I think they’re trying to negotiate. He’s trying to set a stage. In his mind, that helps him make a better deal,” Trump said. “It actually hurts him, but in his mind that helps him make a better deal if they can continue the killing. Maybe it’s a part of the world, maybe it’s just his fabric, his genes, his genetics … but I’ll be talking to him about it,” he added.

President Trump is heading to Alaska for critical talks with Putin, warning of “economically severe” consequences if Russia avoids serious negotiations aimed at ending the war in Ukraine.

'It will be very severe': Trump issues stark warning for Putin ahead of meet - What will he do if Russia doesn't engage in serious talks

US President Donald Trump is on his way to Anchorage, Alaska, for a face-to-face meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in what Washington hopes could be a turning point in efforts to end the war in Ukraine. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said the Alaska summit’s main goal was “to get them at table,” stressing that no decision on Ukraine’s territory would be made without Kyiv’s consent.“They’ll be discussed, but I’ve got to let Ukraine make that decision, and I think they’ll make a proper decision, but I’m not here to negotiate for Ukraine,” Trump said. “I’m here to get them at a table. And I think you have two sides. Look, Vladimir Putin wanted to take all of Ukraine. If I wasn’t president, he would, right now, be taking all of Ukraine, but he’s not going to do it,” he added.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-take-an-irreversible-step-yulia-navalnaya-calls-on-putin-and-trump-to-free-political-prisoners-ahead-of-historic-alaska-talks-1755255836636">‘Take an irreversible step’: Yulia Navalnaya calls on Putin and Trump to free political prisoners ahead of 'historic' Alaska talks</a><h2>No firm promises on Ukraine’s security</h2>Trump stopped short of pledging US-led security guarantees for Ukraine as part of any deal, saying he was open to the idea but believed Europe should take the lead. “Maybe,” he said when asked whether Washington would put such guarantees on the table. He also ruled out Ukraine joining NATO as part of the agreement. “Not in the form of NATO. There are certain things that aren’t going to happen,” Trump said.<h2>Putin’s offensive and the road to talks</h2>Commenting on Russia’s continued military push, Trump suggested Putin might be trying to use the offensive as leverage. “I think they’re trying to negotiate. He’s trying to set a stage. In his mind, that helps him make a better deal,” Trump said. “It actually hurts him, but in his mind that helps him make a better deal if they can continue the killing. Maybe it’s a part of the world, maybe it’s just his fabric, his genes, his genetics … but I’ll be talking to him about it.”

President Trump heads to Alaska for talks with Putin, aiming to bring both sides to the table on Ukraine. He emphasised that territorial decisions will be left to Kyiv alone.

US President Donald Trump is on his way to Anchorage, Alaska, for a face-to-face meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in what Washington hopes could be a turning point in efforts to end the war in Ukraine. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said the Alaska summit’s main goal was “to get them at table,” stressing that no decision on Ukraine’s territory would be made without Kyiv’s consent. “They’ll be discussed, but I’ve got to let Ukraine make that decision, and I think they’ll make a proper decision, but I’m not here to negotiate for Ukraine,” Trump said. “I’m here to get them at a table. And I think you have two sides. Look, Vladimir Putin wanted to take all of Ukraine. If I wasn’t president, he would, right now, be taking all of Ukraine, but he’s not going to do it,” he added. Also read: ‘Take an irreversible step’: Yulia Navalnaya calls on Putin and Trump to free political prisoners ahead of 'historic' Alaska talks No firm promises on Ukraine’s security Trump stopped short of pledging US-led security guarantees for Ukraine as part of any deal, saying he was open to the idea but believed Europe should take the lead. “Maybe,” he said when asked whether Washington would put such guarantees on the table. He also ruled out Ukraine joining NATO as part of the agreement. “Not in the form of NATO. There are certain things that aren’t going to happen,” Trump said. Putin’s offensive and the road to talks Commenting on Russia’s continued military push, Trump suggested Putin might be trying to use the offensive as leverage. “I think they’re trying to negotiate. He’s trying to set a stage. In his mind, that helps him make a better deal,” Trump said. “It actually hurts him, but in his mind that helps him make a better deal if they can continue the killing. Maybe it’s a part of the world, maybe it’s just his fabric, his genes, his genetics … but I’ll be talking to him about it.”

President Trump heads to Alaska for talks with Putin, aiming to bring both sides to the table on Ukraine. He emphasised that territorial decisions will be left to Kyiv alone.

'Putin wanted all of Ukraine': Trump says there will be NO decisions on Ukraine's territory without Ukraine ahead of meeting with Putin

The countdown has begun! US President Donald Trump will convene a high-stakes meeting with Russia’s President Vladimir Putin at Elmendorf-Richardson Air Force Base in Anchorage in a bid to negotiate an end to Russia’s three‑and‑a‑half year war in Ukraine. Trump has publicly staked much on brokering a ceasefire – even hinting he could earn a Nobel Peace Prize – and has floated the idea of “swapping of territories to the betterment of both” sides. He also said he would follow up a successful Russia meeting with a trilateral summit including Ukraine’s president. But Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky was not invited to the first round, and has warned that any peace plan must involve Kyiv directly.&nbsp;In Anchorage, the two leaders will reportedly “focus on discussing options for achieving a long-term peaceful resolution to the Ukrainian crisis,” an aide to Putin said, adding it “will be a challenging process”. Western capitals are watching nervously – allies insist Ukraine’s security interests must come first, while Russia seeks relief from punishing sanctions.<h2>Putin’s terms: Hard bargains for peace</h2>On the eve of the summit, the Kremlin has spelt out what a ceasefire deal would entail – and the demands are onerous. Russia’s war objectives have long included international recognition of its annexations and control over large swaths of eastern and southern Ukraine. In this latest push, Putin’s side is reportedly insisting on Ukraine giving up sovereignty over the Donbas region (Donetsk and Luhansk), the Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions, and even recognising Crimea as Russian. Moscow also demands that Ukraine become a neutral state (explicitly barring NATO membership) and enshrine protections for Russian speakers, including making Russian an official language.&nbsp;Putin has even hinted at broader economic and security guarantees – and possibly a new nuclear arms-control deal with the US – as bargaining chips. Analysts note that Russia’s “stringent conditions” for a full ceasefire are really aimed at securing a long‑term strategic victory. A partial compromise under discussion might be a phased truce – for example pausing air strikes while ground fighting continues. But critics fear such a deal would leave Russia “in control of those escalatory dynamics” on the battlefield with “no genuine deterrence” for Ukraine, a result one expert called a “wonderful outcome from Putin’s perspective”.&nbsp;In public comments, Trump has alternately sounded optimistic and cautious, saying he thinks “Putin will do a deal” on Ukraine but acknowledging the conflict has proven far tougher to end than he expected. A Western diplomat quoted by Reuters suggested the two sides have floated some common terms behind the scenes, but any concrete offer by Russia would likely still amount to Ukraine surrendering territory and major concessions. In exchange, Putin wants Western sanctions lifted and a normalisation of US‑Russia ties – ideally without making that conditional on progress on Ukraine.<h2>Ukraine’s stance: No land concessions</h2>Zelensky and his government have drawn a firm red line: Ukraine will not barter away its territory. In a televised address he reminded citizens that Ukraine’s constitution forbids ceding any land to an aggressor, flatly stating “Ukrainians will not gift their land to the occupiers”.&nbsp;Ukraine’s leaders reject the notion that significant territory could be traded in any ceasefire deal. In the same video, Zelensky warned that any peace decisions made without Ukraine’s input would be “decisions against peace” – “stillborn” and “unworkable” – because they would lack legitimacy.&nbsp;His chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, has echoed that line: “the front line is not a border,” he was quoted saying to Reuters, reaffirming that Kyiv will refuse all territorial concessions. Ukrainian officials also celebrated a recent phone call with Trump in which, they say, he agreed that Kyiv must participate in any talks on land swaps.&nbsp;Even on the streets of Anchorage, Ukrainians and supporters are protesting the idea of ceding any land. Prior demonstrations in Alaska were overwhelmingly pro-Ukraine, underscoring Kyiv’s domestic resolve. Ordinary Ukrainians share this stance: at Kyiv’s Maidan square one veteran told reporters, “Not a single serviceman will agree to cede territory… We fight for every inch”.&nbsp;In sum, Ukraine’s position is clear – it is prepared to negotiate a ceasefire or new peace talks, but only on terms that guarantee its sovereignty and security. Indeed, even conceding the roughly one‑fifth of territory currently occupied by Russia (the Donbas, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia) would be “painful and politically challenging” for Zelensky.&nbsp;Experts warn that any deal effectively locking in Russian gains would be immediately rejected in Ukraine. As Atlantic Council analyst Tyson Barker put it, “the best the Ukrainians can do is remain firm in their objections and their conditions for a negotiated settlement”.<h2>What lies ahead: Prospects and pitfalls</h2>As Trump and Putin meet, much remains uncertain. If the summit achieves even a temporary ceasefire, it could halt the bloodshed for a time – a welcome respite for civilians – but it might also freeze large parts of Ukraine under Russian control. Analysts caution that Moscow could agree to a limited truce while maintaining the ability to quickly resume offensives. In their words, a deal that leaves Ukraine “in control of those escalatory dynamics” would still be a win for Russia.&nbsp;Furthermore, there is a risk that Washington’s pursuit of a rapid deal could undercut Ukrainian morale or unity. So far, both Zelensky and his Western allies appear to have resisted pressure to strike away Ukraine’s key war aims (like NATO membership or recovering all occupied territory).&nbsp;On the other hand, if the meeting stalls without progress, Ukraine could face continued warfare and a distracted world. Trump has even hinted he could react by imposing new sanctions and tariffs on Russia – or cancelling them if Putin agrees to a deal – after Anchorage.&nbsp;Such unpredictability injects risk: if sanctions remain, Russia’s economy will keep straining under pressure, but if they are lifted in exchange for a weak ceasefire, Ukraine’s leverage will weaken. European capitals, while hopeful, have been skeptical: the history of unimplemented ceasefires in this war is long, and many say real peace requires much more than a handshake in Alaska. In the end, the summit’s outcome could reshape the war’s trajectory. A breakthrough could force a halt to fighting and begin a painful process of negotiating Ukraine’s future borders and security guarantees.&nbsp;&nbsp;A collapse of talks might embolden Putin to press his offensive, or simply prolong the stalemate. For Ukraine, the stakes are existential: its leaders will measure any U.S.-Russia deal against the intransigent principle that Ukraine’s future must be decided by Ukraine’s people. As one Ukrainian official put it, this moment calls for “real and genuine peace” – and nothing less will suffice.

Trump–Putin Alaska summit: Will this be the ceasefire that changes everything without Ukraine at the table?

The countdown has begun! US President Donald Trump will convene a high-stakes meeting with Russia’s President Vladimir Putin at Elmendorf-Richardson Air Force Base in Anchorage in a bid to negotiate an end to Russia’s three‑and‑a‑half year war in Ukraine. Trump has publicly staked much on brokering a ceasefire – even hinting he could earn a Nobel Peace Prize – and has floated the idea of “swapping of territories to the betterment of both” sides. He also said he would follow up a successful Russia meeting with a trilateral summit including Ukraine’s president. But Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky was not invited to the first round, and has warned that any peace plan must involve Kyiv directly. In Anchorage, the two leaders will reportedly “focus on discussing options for achieving a long-term peaceful resolution to the Ukrainian crisis,” an aide to Putin said, adding it “will be a challenging process”. Western capitals are watching nervously – allies insist Ukraine’s security interests must come first, while Russia seeks relief from punishing sanctions. Putin’s terms: Hard bargains for peace On the eve of the summit, the Kremlin has spelt out what a ceasefire deal would entail – and the demands are onerous. Russia’s war objectives have long included international recognition of its annexations and control over large swaths of eastern and southern Ukraine. In this latest push, Putin’s side is reportedly insisting on Ukraine giving up sovereignty over the Donbas region (Donetsk and Luhansk), the Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions, and even recognising Crimea as Russian. Moscow also demands that Ukraine become a neutral state (explicitly barring NATO membership) and enshrine protections for Russian speakers, including making Russian an official language. Putin has even hinted at broader economic and security guarantees – and possibly a new nuclear arms-control deal with the US – as bargaining chips. Analysts note that Russia’s “stringent conditions” for a full ceasefire are really aimed at securing a long‑term strategic victory. A partial compromise under discussion might be a phased truce – for example pausing air strikes while ground fighting continues. But critics fear such a deal would leave Russia “in control of those escalatory dynamics” on the battlefield with “no genuine deterrence” for Ukraine, a result one expert called a “wonderful outcome from Putin’s perspective”. In public comments, Trump has alternately sounded optimistic and cautious, saying he thinks “Putin will do a deal” on Ukraine but acknowledging the conflict has proven far tougher to end than he expected. A Western diplomat quoted by Reuters suggested the two sides have floated some common terms behind the scenes, but any concrete offer by Russia would likely still amount to Ukraine surrendering territory and major concessions. In exchange, Putin wants Western sanctions lifted and a normalisation of US‑Russia ties – ideally without making that conditional on progress on Ukraine. Ukraine’s stance: No land concessions Zelensky and his government have drawn a firm red line: Ukraine will not barter away its territory. In a televised address he reminded citizens that Ukraine’s constitution forbids ceding any land to an aggressor, flatly stating “Ukrainians will not gift their land to the occupiers”. Ukraine’s leaders reject the notion that significant territory could be traded in any ceasefire deal. In the same video, Zelensky warned that any peace decisions made without Ukraine’s input would be “decisions against peace” – “stillborn” and “unworkable” – because they would lack legitimacy. His chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, has echoed that line: “the front line is not a border,” he was quoted saying to Reuters, reaffirming that Kyiv will refuse all territorial concessions. Ukrainian officials also celebrated a recent phone call with Trump in which, they say, he agreed that Kyiv must participate in any talks on land swaps. Even on the streets of Anchorage, Ukrainians and supporters are protesting the idea of ceding any land. Prior demonstrations in Alaska were overwhelmingly pro-Ukraine, underscoring Kyiv’s domestic resolve. Ordinary Ukrainians share this stance: at Kyiv’s Maidan square one veteran told reporters, “Not a single serviceman will agree to cede territory… We fight for every inch”. In sum, Ukraine’s position is clear – it is prepared to negotiate a ceasefire or new peace talks, but only on terms that guarantee its sovereignty and security. Indeed, even conceding the roughly one‑fifth of territory currently occupied by Russia (the Donbas, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia) would be “painful and politically challenging” for Zelensky. Experts warn that any deal effectively locking in Russian gains would be immediately rejected in Ukraine. As Atlantic Council analyst Tyson Barker put it, “the best the Ukrainians can do is remain firm in their objections and their conditions for a negotiated settlement”. What lies ahead: Prospects and pitfalls As Trump and Putin meet, much remains uncertain. If the summit achieves even a temporary ceasefire, it could halt the bloodshed for a time – a welcome respite for civilians – but it might also freeze large parts of Ukraine under Russian control. Analysts caution that Moscow could agree to a limited truce while maintaining the ability to quickly resume offensives. In their words, a deal that leaves Ukraine “in control of those escalatory dynamics” would still be a win for Russia. Furthermore, there is a risk that Washington’s pursuit of a rapid deal could undercut Ukrainian morale or unity. So far, both Zelensky and his Western allies appear to have resisted pressure to strike away Ukraine’s key war aims (like NATO membership or recovering all occupied territory). On the other hand, if the meeting stalls without progress, Ukraine could face continued warfare and a distracted world. Trump has even hinted he could react by imposing new sanctions and tariffs on Russia – or cancelling them if Putin agrees to a deal – after Anchorage. Such unpredictability injects risk: if sanctions remain, Russia’s economy will keep straining under pressure, but if they are lifted in exchange for a weak ceasefire, Ukraine’s leverage will weaken. European capitals, while hopeful, have been skeptical: the history of unimplemented ceasefires in this war is long, and many say real peace requires much more than a handshake in Alaska. In the end, the summit’s outcome could reshape the war’s trajectory. A breakthrough could force a halt to fighting and begin a painful process of negotiating Ukraine’s future borders and security guarantees. A collapse of talks might embolden Putin to press his offensive, or simply prolong the stalemate. For Ukraine, the stakes are existential: its leaders will measure any U.S.-Russia deal against the intransigent principle that Ukraine’s future must be decided by Ukraine’s people. As one Ukrainian official put it, this moment calls for “real and genuine peace” – and nothing less will suffice.

Ahead of his high-stakes meeting with US President Donald Trump in Alaska, Russian President Vladimir Putin held discussions with top military, economic, and diplomatic officials in Moscow

The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (Ice) released a social media video on Thursday (August 14) that featured a song by the rapper DaBaby - and the agency's vehicle. But here's the catch. The vehicle was seen to be painted in the same red, blue, and gold style as Donald Trump’s private jet - &nbsp;which was featured in the opening sequence for The Apprentice. This came as an advertisement to attract new recruits, as claimed by The Guardian.&nbsp;The North Carolina singer, DaBaby, was born as Jonathan Lyndale Kirk. He was heavily criticised in 2021 for his homophobic remarks. The song used in the ad was named TOES. The lyrics goes as: &nbsp;“My heart so cold I think I’m done with ice (Uh, brr)/ Said if I leave her, she gon’ die/ Well, b***h, you done with life (Okay)/ Better not pull up with no knife/‘Cause I bring guns to fights (Boom)”.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Iced out. 🥶 <a href="https://t.co/xhexqgmbzS">pic.twitter.com/xhexqgmbzS</a>&mdash; Homeland Security (@DHSgov) <a href="https://twitter.com/DHSgov/status/1956077756854186191?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

This was the second time ICE performed such a stunt. Earlier, in a previous advertisement, the agency used Jay-Z's music which was later removed due to copyright complaint. But by the time it was removed, the post had gained over three million views.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bitcoin-included-in-retirement-plans-as-regulations-advances-1755206972745/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/bitcoin-included-in-retirement-plans-as-regulations-advances-1755206972745/embed</a>&nbsp;The video featured images of ICE agents during raids set to Jay-Z’s Public Service Announcement, with the caption: “Hunt Cartels. Save America. JOIN.ICE.GOV.”&nbsp;"Iced out," a caption included with the video said.&nbsp;"What a disgusting waste of OUR money," one commenter said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">ICE has new marked vehicles… and they’re sporting the same paint job as Trump’s personal jet. Subtle. <a href="https://t.co/1vKBy3RMr4">pic.twitter.com/1vKBy3RMr4</a>&mdash; alex (@ajhoward121) <a href="https://twitter.com/ajhoward121/status/1955982818481209520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The vehicle was seen to be painted in the same red, blue, and gold style as Donald Trump private jet -  which was featured in the opening sequence for The Apprentice.

The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (Ice) released a social media video on Thursday (August 14) that featured a song by the rapper DaBaby - and the agency's vehicle. But here's the catch. The vehicle was seen to be painted in the same red, blue, and gold style as Donald Trump’s private jet - which was featured in the opening sequence for The Apprentice. This came as an advertisement to attract new recruits, as claimed by The Guardian. The North Carolina singer, DaBaby, was born as Jonathan Lyndale Kirk. He was heavily criticised in 2021 for his homophobic remarks. The song used in the ad was named TOES. The lyrics goes as: “My heart so cold I think I’m done with ice (Uh, brr)/ Said if I leave her, she gon’ die/ Well, b***h, you done with life (Okay)/ Better not pull up with no knife/‘Cause I bring guns to fights (Boom)”.

The vehicle was seen to be painted in the same red, blue, and gold style as Donald Trump’s private jet - &nbsp;which was featured in the opening sequence for The Apprentice.

ICE’s new ad features a DaBaby rap and a Suburban inspired by Trump's jet

US President Donald Trump said on Thursday (August 14) that he wants Israel to allow foreign journalists into the Gaza Strip to report on the situation of humanitarian aid that the US is pursuing. During a press conference in the Oval Office, reporters asked him whether he would “pressure Israel to allow journalists into Gaza to cover the humanitarian efforts that the US is pursuing.”&nbsp;“I’d like to see that happen,” Trump said.&nbsp;It was unclear when the reporter asked this question, what US-led humanitarian efforts they were referring to. Because the US has only indicated that &nbsp;it supports expanding the work of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation.&nbsp;“I’d be very fine with journalists going in. It’s a very dangerous position to be in if you’re a journalist, but I would like to see it," Trump added in his response.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Trump: I would like to see journalists going into Gaza. <a href="https://t.co/F8t57S8nW6">pic.twitter.com/F8t57S8nW6</a>&mdash; Clash Report (@clashreport) <a href="https://twitter.com/clashreport/status/1956057744860950988?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

This came after the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday that he would allow more journalists into Gaza, but he appeared to simply be referring to an expansion of those military escorts through which reporters are not able to freely and independently operate.<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bitcoin-included-in-retirement-plans-as-regulations-advances-1755206972745/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/bitcoin-included-in-retirement-plans-as-regulations-advances-1755206972745/embed</a></h2><h2>Trump YELLED at Netanyahu over Gaza starvation on a call?</h2>A report came on Thursday (August 7) claiming that the American president shouted at Netanyahu for his stance on the aid to the strip. NBC News cited senior US officials saying that during the call, which was made on July 28, as claimed by Netanyahu, the Israeli PM denied that there was any starvation in Gaza. This was despite multiple reports of children dying in the strip due to hunger. After this claim, Trump publicly responded the next day that he was “not particularly convinced” by Netanyahu’s assurance, saying there was “real starvation” in the Strip and adding: “You can’t fake that.”&nbsp;Following this, the Israeli PM requested a phone call with Trump, where he told the American president that the reports of starvation in Gaza had been “fabricated” by Hamas and that hunger was not widespread in the enclave. In response, Trump began yelling at his ally, saying that his aides had shown him proof that children in Gaza were starving and that he didn’t want to hear it dismissed as “fake.” Following this, the Israeli PM requested a phone call with Trump, where he told the American president that the reports of starvation in Gaza had been “fabricated” by Hamas and that hunger was not widespread in the enclave. In response, Trump began yelling at his ally, saying that his aides had shown him proof that children in Gaza were starving and that he didn’t want to hear it dismissed as “fake.”

Trump said on Thursday (August 14) that he wants Israel to allow foreign journalists into the Gaza Strip to report on the situation of humanitarian aid that the US is pursuing.

US President Donald Trump said on Thursday (August 14) that he wants Israel to allow foreign journalists into the Gaza Strip to report on the situation of humanitarian aid that the US is pursuing. During a press conference in the Oval Office, reporters asked him whether he would “pressure Israel to allow journalists into Gaza to cover the humanitarian efforts that the US is pursuing.” “I’d like to see that happen,” Trump said. It was unclear when the reporter asked this question, what US-led humanitarian efforts they were referring to. Because the US has only indicated that it supports expanding the work of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. “I’d be very fine with journalists going in. It’s a very dangerous position to be in if you’re a journalist, but I would like to see it," Trump added in his response.

Trump said on Thursday (August 14) that he wants Israel to allow foreign journalists into the Gaza Strip to report on the situation of humanitarian aid that the US is pursuing.

'Very dangerous position to be in, but...': Trump wants foreign journalists in Gaza. Here's why

US President Donald Trump seems to be much more desperate for a Nobel Peace Prize than the American media has shown. Latest in the efforts of bagging the peace prize, Donald Trump dialed the Norwegian finance minister out of the blue in July to duscuss tariffs - and Nobel Peace Price. As per the Norwegian business daily Dagens Næringsliv, the American president cold-called Jens Stoltenberg and told him that he wants a peace prize. "Out of the blue, while finance minister Jens Stoltenberg was walking down the street in Oslo, Donald Trump called,” Dagens Næringsliv reported, citing unnamed sources. “He wanted the Nobel prize – and to discuss tariffs," the report added.&nbsp;The newspaper said it was not the first time that Trump expressed his desire to get the accolade to the minister. In a comment to Reuters, Stoltenberg said the call was to discuss tariffs and economic cooperation before Trump’s call with Jonas Støre, the Norwegian prime minister. “I will not go into further detail about the content of the conversation,” he added.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/altman-musk-target-human-evolution-with-ai-implants-1755197032468/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/altman-musk-target-human-evolution-with-ai-implants-1755197032468/embed</a><h2>Trump and the Nobel Peace Prize - a one-sided love story?</h2>A few countries, including Israel, Pakistan, and Cambodia, have nominated Trump for the prize. The US president himself has repeated multiple times that he deserves the Norwegian-bestowed accolade for brokering a ceasefire between multiple nations during conflict, including India-Pakistan. Although India, along with several other countries, did not support Trump's ceasefire credit claims. But the American president did not lose hope and went on to compare himself with four of his White House predecessors, including Barack Obama, who were awarded the prize.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bitcoin-included-in-retirement-plans-as-regulations-advances-1755206972745/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/bitcoin-included-in-retirement-plans-as-regulations-advances-1755206972745/embed</a>&nbsp;In 2024, Trump was endorsed by his party's leader, Buddy Carter, for his efforts in brokering a ceasefire between Israel and Iran. Pakistan also nominated him for his alleged role in establishing peace between India and Pakistan during a cross-border crisis. Even Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been named a war criminal by the UN for his occupation in Gaza, nominated Trump for the peace prize.&nbsp;Moreover, on Friday (August 8), the White House again claimed "a ceasefire between India and Pakistan" among the list of US President Donald Trump's "Foreign Policy Victories."

Donald Trump cold-called the Norwegian finance minister out of the blue in July to duscuss tariffs - and Nobel Peace Price. As per the Norwegian business daily Dagens Næringsliv, the American president cold-called Jens Stoltenberg and told him that he wants a peace prize.


US President Donald Trump seems to be much more desperate for a Nobel Peace Prize than the American media has shown. Latest in the efforts of bagging the peace prize, Donald Trump dialed the Norwegian finance minister out of the blue in July to duscuss tariffs - and Nobel Peace Price. As per the Norwegian business daily Dagens Næringsliv, the American president cold-called Jens Stoltenberg and told him that he wants a peace prize. "Out of the blue, while finance minister Jens Stoltenberg was walking down the street in Oslo, Donald Trump called,” Dagens Næringsliv reported, citing unnamed sources. “He wanted the Nobel prize – and to discuss tariffs," the report added. The newspaper said it was not the first time that Trump expressed his desire to get the accolade to the minister. In a comment to Reuters, Stoltenberg said the call was to discuss tariffs and economic cooperation before Trump’s call with Jonas Støre, the Norwegian prime minister. “I will not go into further detail about the content of the conversation,” he added. https://www.wionews.com/videos/altman-musk-target-human-evolution-with-ai-implants-1755197032468/embed Trump and the Nobel Peace Prize - a one-sided love story? A few countries, including Israel, Pakistan, and Cambodia, have nominated Trump for the prize. The US president himself has repeated multiple times that he deserves the Norwegian-bestowed accolade for brokering a ceasefire between multiple nations during conflict, including India-Pakistan. Although India, along with several other countries, did not support Trump's ceasefire credit claims. But the American president did not lose hope and went on to compare himself with four of his White House predecessors, including Barack Obama, who were awarded the prize. https://www.wionews.com/videos/bitcoin-included-in-retirement-plans-as-regulations-advances-1755206972745/embed In 2024, Trump was endorsed by his party's leader, Buddy Carter, for his efforts in brokering a ceasefire between Israel and Iran. Pakistan also nominated him for his alleged role in establishing peace between India and Pakistan during a cross-border crisis. Even Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been named a war criminal by the UN for his occupation in Gaza, nominated Trump for the peace prize. Moreover, on Friday (August 8), the White House again claimed "a ceasefire between India and Pakistan" among the list of US President Donald Trump's "Foreign Policy Victories."

Donald Trump cold-called the Norwegian finance minister out of the blue in July to duscuss tariffs - and Nobel Peace Price. As per the Norwegian business daily Dagens Næringsliv, the American president cold-called Jens Stoltenberg and told him that he wants a peace prize. &nbsp;

‘I want Nobel Peace Prize’: Desperate Trump cold-calls Norwegian minister

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Aug 13) responded to the recent alleged hacking by Russia into the federal court system of the US. This comes after the report suggesting that investigators have discovered evidence suggesting Russia is at least partly responsible for a recent hack of the computer system that manages federal court documents. The data included highly sensitive records that could reveal sources and people charged with national security crimes.&nbsp;During a press conference at the Kennedy Center, Trump was asked, “There is new reporting that the Russians have hacked into some computer systems that manage US Federal court documents. I wonder if you’ve seen this reporting or if you plan to bring it up to President [Vladimir] Putin later in the week?”&nbsp;Responding to the question, the US president said, “I guess I could. Are you surprised? They hack in, that’s what they do. They’re good at it, we’re good at it. We’re actually better at it. But I’ve heard about it.”&nbsp;This comes ahead of a meeting between Trump and Putin in Alaska on Friday (Aug 15). The two leaders are set to discuss a ceasefire proposal to end the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;The New York Times reported that it is not clear which entity is responsible for the hacking attack, whether an arm of Russian intelligence or if other countries were involved as well.&nbsp;<h2>What was the breach?</h2>&nbsp;According to an internal department memo, administrators with the court system informed Justice Department officials, clerks, and federal court judges that “persistent and sophisticated cyber threat actors have recently compromised sealed records.” The officials were also advised to quickly remove the most sensitive documents from the system, the report added.&nbsp;“This remains an URGENT MATTER that requires immediate action,” officials wrote.&nbsp;This is not the first time hackers have targeted the US court document filing system. Foreign spies hacked into the system in 2021, while in 2022, three hostile foreign actors targeted the court document filing system.

US President Donald Trump reacted to the alleged Russian hack into US court system, saying that he might bring it up during talks with Putin on Friday (Aug 15).

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Aug 13) responded to the recent alleged hacking by Russia into the federal court system of the US. This comes after the report suggesting that investigators have discovered evidence suggesting Russia is at least partly responsible for a recent hack of the computer system that manages federal court documents. The data included highly sensitive records that could reveal sources and people charged with national security crimes. During a press conference at the Kennedy Center, Trump was asked, “There is new reporting that the Russians have hacked into some computer systems that manage US Federal court documents. I wonder if you’ve seen this reporting or if you plan to bring it up to President [Vladimir] Putin later in the week?” Responding to the question, the US president said, “I guess I could. Are you surprised? They hack in, that’s what they do. They’re good at it, we’re good at it. We’re actually better at it. But I’ve heard about it.” This comes ahead of a meeting between Trump and Putin in Alaska on Friday (Aug 15). The two leaders are set to discuss a ceasefire proposal to end the war in Ukraine. The New York Times reported that it is not clear which entity is responsible for the hacking attack, whether an arm of Russian intelligence or if other countries were involved as well. What was the breach? According to an internal department memo, administrators with the court system informed Justice Department officials, clerks, and federal court judges that “persistent and sophisticated cyber threat actors have recently compromised sealed records.” The officials were also advised to quickly remove the most sensitive documents from the system, the report added. “This remains an URGENT MATTER that requires immediate action,” officials wrote. This is not the first time hackers have targeted the US court document filing system. Foreign spies hacked into the system in 2021, while in 2022, three hostile foreign actors targeted the court document filing system.

US President Donald Trump reacted to the alleged Russian hack into US court system, saying that he might bring it up during talks with Putin on Friday (Aug 15).

Trump to bring up alleged Russian hack into US federal court system during talks with Putin? Here’s what he said

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday named "Rocky" star Sylvester Stallone and country music great George Strait among the recipients of the Kennedy Center Honors, as he pursues a controversial overhaul of the storied arts institution.&nbsp;Disco diva Gloria Gaynor, rock band KISS and British theatre star Michael Crawford, known for his indelible turn in the lead role of Broadway staple "Phantom of the Opera," will also receive the Honors, one of the nation's highest arts awards.&nbsp;Trump announced he himself would host the Honors gala, which usually takes place in early December and is later broadcast on CBS.&nbsp;"I did not insist, but I think it will be quite successful," he told reporters at the stately white marble complex overlooking the Potomac River.&nbsp;He also joked that he wanted an honor himself but was "never able to get one."&nbsp;Stallone, who at 79 is the same age as Trump, is a three-time Oscar nominee: for best actor and screenplay for the 1976 classic boxing flick "Rocky," and for best supporting actor, again in the Rocky Balboa role, in the 2015 follow-up "Creed."&nbsp;He is also a major Trump supporter and one of the president's "Hollywood ambassadors" along with Jon Voight and Mel Gibson.&nbsp;Strait, 73, is one of the best-selling musicians of all time, known for huge hits like "All My Exes Live in Texas" and "Amarillo by Morning." Gaynor, 81, is the singer behind the monster disco anthem "I Will Survive."&nbsp;KISS, formed in the 1970s in Trump's hometown of New York City, gained fame with its shock rock performances and outlandish black and white face paint.&nbsp;Crawford, 83, made his mark on British television in the 1970s before achieving international success by originating the title role in Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical "Phantom of the Opera," thrilling audiences with his powerful tenor voice.<h2>‘Not going to be woke’</h2>&nbsp;The Kennedy Center, one of the nation's top performing arts venues, is a living monument to the late John F. Kennedy. Opened in 1971, it has long enjoyed bipartisan support.&nbsp;But in February, shortly after returning to the Oval Office, Trump ousted the center's leadership and installed himself as board chairman, vowing to purge any programming he deems objectionable.&nbsp;"A few short months ago, I became chairman of the Kennedy Center," Trump said Wednesday.&nbsp;"We ended the woke...political programming."&nbsp;In his first term, from 2017 to 2021, the Republican president skipped the Kennedy Center Honors gala, the biggest fundraiser of the year, because some of the artists receiving awards criticised him or said they would not attend in his presence.&nbsp;The Kennedy Center is home to the National Symphony Orchestra and also offers theatre, opera, comedy and other productions.&nbsp;Many artists associated with the center, including opera singer Renee Fleming and musician Ben Folds, have cut ties with the institution. Others including comedian Issa Rae cancelled performances.&nbsp;The producers of the smash hit historical musical "Hamilton" opted to cancel a scheduled 2026 run timed to coincide with the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, citing the end of "neutrality" at the center.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The Kennedy Center, one of the nation's top performing arts venues, is a living monument to the late John F. Kennedy. Opened in 1971, it has long enjoyed bipartisan support.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday named "Rocky" star Sylvester Stallone and country music great George Strait among the recipients of the Kennedy Center Honors, as he pursues a controversial overhaul of the storied arts institution. Disco diva Gloria Gaynor, rock band KISS and British theatre star Michael Crawford, known for his indelible turn in the lead role of Broadway staple "Phantom of the Opera," will also receive the Honors, one of the nation's highest arts awards. Trump announced he himself would host the Honors gala, which usually takes place in early December and is later broadcast on CBS. "I did not insist, but I think it will be quite successful," he told reporters at the stately white marble complex overlooking the Potomac River. He also joked that he wanted an honor himself but was "never able to get one." Stallone, who at 79 is the same age as Trump, is a three-time Oscar nominee: for best actor and screenplay for the 1976 classic boxing flick "Rocky," and for best supporting actor, again in the Rocky Balboa role, in the 2015 follow-up "Creed." He is also a major Trump supporter and one of the president's "Hollywood ambassadors" along with Jon Voight and Mel Gibson. Strait, 73, is one of the best-selling musicians of all time, known for huge hits like "All My Exes Live in Texas" and "Amarillo by Morning." Gaynor, 81, is the singer behind the monster disco anthem "I Will Survive." KISS, formed in the 1970s in Trump's hometown of New York City, gained fame with its shock rock performances and outlandish black and white face paint. Crawford, 83, made his mark on British television in the 1970s before achieving international success by originating the title role in Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical "Phantom of the Opera," thrilling audiences with his powerful tenor voice. ‘Not going to be woke’ The Kennedy Center, one of the nation's top performing arts venues, is a living monument to the late John F. Kennedy. Opened in 1971, it has long enjoyed bipartisan support. But in February, shortly after returning to the Oval Office, Trump ousted the center's leadership and installed himself as board chairman, vowing to purge any programming he deems objectionable. "A few short months ago, I became chairman of the Kennedy Center," Trump said Wednesday. "We ended the woke...political programming." In his first term, from 2017 to 2021, the Republican president skipped the Kennedy Center Honors gala, the biggest fundraiser of the year, because some of the artists receiving awards criticised him or said they would not attend in his presence. The Kennedy Center is home to the National Symphony Orchestra and also offers theatre, opera, comedy and other productions. Many artists associated with the center, including opera singer Renee Fleming and musician Ben Folds, have cut ties with the institution. Others including comedian Issa Rae cancelled performances. The producers of the smash hit historical musical "Hamilton" opted to cancel a scheduled 2026 run timed to coincide with the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, citing the end of "neutrality" at the center. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The Kennedy Center, one of the nation's top performing arts venues, is a living monument to the late John F. Kennedy. Opened in 1971, it has long enjoyed bipartisan support.

Trump announces Kennedy Center honorees, names Stallone, Strait among recipients

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Aug 13) blasted at “fake news” media over its coverage of his upcoming meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin over Ukraine ceasefire talks in Alaska on Friday (Aug 15). Trump also slammed “fired losers and really dumb people like John Bolton in a fiery post on his Truth Social platform. The US president’s remarks on “very unfair media” came hours before he is set to hold talks with European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.&nbsp;“Very unfair media is at work on my meeting with Putin. Constantly quoting fired losers and really dumb people like John Bolton, who just said that, even though the meeting is on American soil, ‘Putin has already won.’” Trump wrote on Truth Social.&nbsp;John Bolton, former US National Security Advisor (NSA), had criticised Trump’s tariff on India over its Russian oil purchase, saying that his move could push India closer to China and Russia. He added that trade duties are intended to hurt India, but will spoil years of the relationship between the country and the United States.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gravitas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gravitas</a> | Former U.S. National Security Advisor John Bolton offers deep insights into the geopolitical stakes surrounding the high-level Alaska summit.<a href="https://twitter.com/MollyGambhir?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MollyGambhir</a> reports<a href="https://twitter.com/AmbJohnBolton?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmbJohnBolton</a>, Former U.S. National Security Advisor, brings you his insights <a href="https://t.co/XqjT671O8B">pic.twitter.com/XqjT671O8B</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1955329483810148578?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Trump further added the post, “What’s that all about? We are winning on EVERYTHING. The Fake News is working overtime (No tax on overtime!). If I got Moscow and Leningrad free, as part of the deal with Russia, the Fake News would say that I made a bad deal!”&nbsp;“But now they’ve been caught. Look at all of the real news that’s coming out about their CORRUPTION. They are sick and dishonest people, who probably hate our Country. But it doesn’t matter because we are winning on everything!!! MAGA,” the US president said.&nbsp;Ahead of his Alaska talks with Putin, Trump said on Monday (Aug 11) that he is expecting a “constructive conversation”. The US President has also hinted that a ceasefire deal to end the war in Ukraine could involve “land swapping.” Meanwhile, Zelensky has ruled out territorial concessions to Russia.&nbsp;Trump is set to speak with Zelensky and other European leaders on Wednesday (Aug 13). The Ukrainian president is in Berlin for the German-hosted virtual meeting two days before the US president meets his Russian counterpart in Alaska.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Aug 13) slammed “fake news” media over its coverage ahead of Ukraine talks in Alaska with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Aug 13) blasted at “fake news” media over its coverage of his upcoming meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin over Ukraine ceasefire talks in Alaska on Friday (Aug 15). Trump also slammed “fired losers and really dumb people like John Bolton in a fiery post on his Truth Social platform. The US president’s remarks on “very unfair media” came hours before he is set to hold talks with European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. “Very unfair media is at work on my meeting with Putin. Constantly quoting fired losers and really dumb people like John Bolton, who just said that, even though the meeting is on American soil, ‘Putin has already won.’” Trump wrote on Truth Social. John Bolton, former US National Security Advisor (NSA), had criticised Trump’s tariff on India over its Russian oil purchase, saying that his move could push India closer to China and Russia. He added that trade duties are intended to hurt India, but will spoil years of the relationship between the country and the United States.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Aug 13) slammed “fake news” media over its coverage ahead of Ukraine talks in Alaska with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

‘If I got Moscow and Leningrad free…’: Trump attacks ‘fake news’ media ahead of Alaska talks with Putin on Ukraine war

US President Donald Trump's next step in the Trump-ification of America can potentially bulldoze Smithsonian exhibits. As per reports, the POTUS's initiative to Make American History Great Again, a play on his MAGA movement's name, has set its sights on the Smithsonian Institute's museum exhibits that are deemed to cast America as "racist, sexist, oppressive, or otherwise irredeemably flawed". Reports suggest that three White House officials have sent a letter to Lonnie Bunch, the secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, declaring that the Trump administration would soon do a comprehensive review of the exhibits at its various museums. It said that the review would seek to ensure that the museums which receive federal funding project "unity, progress, and enduring values that define the American story", as outlined in Trump's March executive order titled "Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/i-asked-elon-musk-s-ai-grok-why-it-called-trump-most-notorious-criminal-in-washington-it-doubled-down-and-gave-me-these-reasons-1754985406949">I asked Grok why it called Trump 'most notorious criminal'. It said THIS</a><h2>What did the White House say?</h2>In line with Trump's executive order that calls for the removal of messages that cast America as "racist, sexist, oppressive, or otherwise irredeemably flawed," the newly announced review would target the Smithsonian's 8 of 19 museums in Washington, DC. This includes the National Museum of American History and the Smithsonian American Art Museum.“This initiative aims to ensure alignment with the president’s directive to celebrate American exceptionalism, remove divisive or partisan narratives, and restore confidence in our shared cultural institutions,” reads the White House letter that bears the signatures of White House senior associate Lindsey Halligan, Director of the Office of Management and Budget, Russell Vought, and Director of Domestic Policy Council, Vince Haley.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/modi-zelensky-plan-to-meet-at-unga-is-this-a-diplomatic-signal-to-us-ahead-of-trump-putin-summit-over-ukraine-russia-war-1755063867261">Modi-Zelensky plan to meet at UNGA. Is this a diplomatic signal to US ahead of Trump-Putin summit over Ukraine-Russia war?</a><h2>Why now?</h2>In a conversation with The Washington Post, White House senior associate Lindsey Halligan, who was a key player in Trump’s March executive order, said that the upcoming review was in preparation for America250. It is the 250th anniversary celebration of America’s founding. She said that it was “preserving trust in one of our most cherished institutions”, adding that the “Smithsonian museums and exhibits should be accurate, patriotic, and enlightening”. &nbsp;

Donald Trump's White House has set its sights on the Smithsonian Institution's museum exhibits that are deemed to cast America as "racist, sexist, oppressive, or otherwise irredeemably flawed".

US President Donald Trump's next step in the Trump-ification of America can potentially bulldoze Smithsonian exhibits. As per reports, the POTUS's initiative to Make American History Great Again, a play on his MAGA movement's name, has set its sights on the Smithsonian Institute's museum exhibits that are deemed to cast America as "racist, sexist, oppressive, or otherwise irredeemably flawed". Reports suggest that three White House officials have sent a letter to Lonnie Bunch, the secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, declaring that the Trump administration would soon do a comprehensive review of the exhibits at its various museums. It said that the review would seek to ensure that the museums which receive federal funding project "unity, progress, and enduring values that define the American story", as outlined in Trump's March executive order titled "Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History". Also read | I asked Grok why it called Trump 'most notorious criminal'. It said THIS What did the White House say? In line with Trump's executive order that calls for the removal of messages that cast America as "racist, sexist, oppressive, or otherwise irredeemably flawed," the newly announced review would target the Smithsonian's 8 of 19 museums in Washington, DC. This includes the National Museum of American History and the Smithsonian American Art Museum. “This initiative aims to ensure alignment with the president’s directive to celebrate American exceptionalism, remove divisive or partisan narratives, and restore confidence in our shared cultural institutions,” reads the White House letter that bears the signatures of White House senior associate Lindsey Halligan, Director of the Office of Management and Budget, Russell Vought, and Director of Domestic Policy Council, Vince Haley. Also read | Modi-Zelensky plan to meet at UNGA. Is this a diplomatic signal to US ahead of Trump-Putin summit over Ukraine-Russia war? Why now? In a conversation with The Washington Post, White House senior associate Lindsey Halligan, who was a key player in Trump’s March executive order, said that the upcoming review was in preparation for America250. It is the 250th anniversary celebration of America’s founding. She said that it was “preserving trust in one of our most cherished institutions”, adding that the “Smithsonian museums and exhibits should be accurate, patriotic, and enlightening”.

Donald Trump's White House has set its sights on the Smithsonian Institution's museum exhibits that are deemed to cast America as "racist, sexist, oppressive, or otherwise irredeemably flawed".

Next step in Trump-ification of US? Smithsonian exhibits face ‘patriotic’ purge ahead of America's 250th anniversary

Just like Ellen DeGeneres and Rosie O'Donnell, comedian Jimmy Kimmel may soon find a new home across the Atlantic. Kimmel, who has been hosting Jimmy Kimmel Live! for over two decades, has discussed the potential exit plan he might take due to Donald Trump's presidency. Kimmel never misses a chance to bash President Trump, and now he has shared that he, indeed, has a plan to move to another continent.<h2>Jimmy Kimmel on leaving the USA</h2>Speaking about Trump and his presidency, Kimmel on The Sarah Silverman Podcast shared that he might be another A-lister, who might move out of the LA suburbs soon.&nbsp;““A lot of people I know are thinking about, where are they going to get citizenship?” Silverman said.&nbsp;“I did get Italian citizenship,” Kimmel replied. “What’s going on [with Trump] is as bad as you thought it was gonna be. It’s so much worse; it’s just unbelievable. I feel like it’s probably even worse than he would like it to be.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-treasury-secretary-calls-india-recalcitrant-in-trade-talks-here-s-why-1755050722511">US Treasury Secretary calls India ‘recalcitrant’ in trade talks — here’s why</a>&nbsp;Trump is in an open war with American late-night TV hosts. After Stephen Colbert's late-night show was cancelled on CBS, the President, in a post on Truth Social, wrote that Kimmel is the "NEXT."&nbsp;Following Colbert’s “The Late Show” being axed, Trump wrote, “I absolutely love that Colbert’ got fired. His talent was even less than his ratings. I hear Jimmy Kimmel is next. Has even less talent than Colbert!”&nbsp;Kimmel also reacted to Trump via a post on Instagram, referencing Trump’s friendship with sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. His post reads,“I’m hearing you’re next. Or maybe it’s just another wonderful secret.”&nbsp;Also read:&nbsp; <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-us-applauds-pakistan-s-successes-to-contain-terrorism-us-lauds-pakistan-s-crackdown-on-terrorist-entities-extends-condolences-over-attacks-1755036078768">US lauds Pakistan’s crackdown on 'terrorist entities'</a>&nbsp;According to media reports, Kimmel has already obtained Italian citizenship this year, proving his ancestral lineage. As per reports, Kimmel's grandfather's parents migrated to New York from Ischia after an earthquake in Casa Micciola, in 1883 that killed most of the family.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump is at war with several A-listers, and one of them is comedian Jimmy Kimmel. The late-night show host has repeatedly criticised Trump and his actions. However, he has now revealed that he has plans to leave the USA.

Just like Ellen DeGeneres and Rosie O'Donnell, comedian Jimmy Kimmel may soon find a new home across the Atlantic. Kimmel, who has been hosting Jimmy Kimmel Live! for over two decades, has discussed the potential exit plan he might take due to Donald Trump's presidency. Kimmel never misses a chance to bash President Trump, and now he has shared that he, indeed, has a plan to move to another continent. Jimmy Kimmel on leaving the USA Speaking about Trump and his presidency, Kimmel on The Sarah Silverman Podcast shared that he might be another A-lister, who might move out of the LA suburbs soon. ““A lot of people I know are thinking about, where are they going to get citizenship?” Silverman said. “I did get Italian citizenship,” Kimmel replied. “What’s going on [with Trump] is as bad as you thought it was gonna be. It’s so much worse; it’s just unbelievable. I feel like it’s probably even worse than he would like it to be.” Also read: US Treasury Secretary calls India ‘recalcitrant’ in trade talks — here’s why Trump is in an open war with American late-night TV hosts. After Stephen Colbert's late-night show was cancelled on CBS, the President, in a post on Truth Social, wrote that Kimmel is the "NEXT." Following Colbert’s “The Late Show” being axed, Trump wrote, “I absolutely love that Colbert’ got fired. His talent was even less than his ratings. I hear Jimmy Kimmel is next. Has even less talent than Colbert!” Kimmel also reacted to Trump via a post on Instagram, referencing Trump’s friendship with sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. His post reads,“I’m hearing you’re next. Or maybe it’s just another wonderful secret.” Also read: US lauds Pakistan’s crackdown on 'terrorist entities' According to media reports, Kimmel has already obtained Italian citizenship this year, proving his ancestral lineage. As per reports, Kimmel's grandfather's parents migrated to New York from Ischia after an earthquake in Casa Micciola, in 1883 that killed most of the family.

US President Donald Trump is at war with several A-listers, and one of them is comedian Jimmy Kimmel. The late-night show host has repeatedly criticised Trump and his actions. However, he has now revealed that he has plans to leave the USA.

Jimmy Kimmel may leave the US, calls Trump’s presidency ‘worse’: ‘I did get Italian citizenship’

As US President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin prepare to meet in Alaska on 15 August, Ukraine is bracing for decisions that could shape its future, without its direct involvement. “It’s not entirely clear what happens next,” a source in the President’s Office told the Kyiv Independent. “But it’s clear that we’re about to be a little bit sold out,” they added.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-his-personal-victory-zelensky-says-trump-putin-meet-is-a-win-for-russia-here-s-why-1755027468953">'His personal victory': Zelensky says Trump-Putin meet is a win for Russia - Here's why</a>Speaking at a closed-door briefing with journalists, President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed caution over the Anchorage talks. “Meaningful and productive talks about us without us won’t work,” he said. “I don’t know what they (the US and Russia) will talk about without us. Probably, they have their own bilateral track,” he added.<h2>Russian gains ahead of negotiations</h2>The summit comes as Russian forces advance in Donetsk Oblast, pushing towards Dobropillia, an area considered safe just a month earlier. Zelensky said the timing was deliberate. “The purpose of this advance is clear to us: by Aug. 15, to create a certain information backdrop ahead of Putin’s meeting with Trump… suggesting that Russia is moving forward and Ukraine is losing ground,” he noted. For the Ukrainian president, the meeting represents a “personal victory” for Putin, giving him the chance to “break out of isolation” on US soil and delay sanctions. “He is seeking, excuse me, photographs. He needs a photo from his meeting with President Trump,” Zelensky added.<h2>Lawmakers warn of a political spectacle</h2>Oleksandr Merezhko, head of Ukraine’s parliamentary committee on international policy, described the summit as potentially “a political show.” “In this case, since Trump is a non-classical president and a non-classical diplomat, his meeting at the highest level may be just for show,” he told the Kyiv Independent. Ukraine’s allies have reaffirmed their support for its territorial integrity after Trump publicly floated the idea of a “territory swap” and reports surfaced that Putin wanted a complete withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from Donetsk and Luhansk.<h2>Ceasefire signals, but uncertainty over terms</h2>Zelensky revealed that US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, fresh from talks with Putin, indicated Russia might agree to a ceasefire. But Kyiv remains unsure about the conditions. The Ukrainian leader said there is a “high likelihood” that Putin will demand a withdrawal from Donetsk and Luhansk, something Trump may implicitly endorse by saying, “The Ukrainians will have to do it.”<h2>Zelensky vows no troop withdrawal</h2>Zelensky insisted Ukraine would keep pushing for a ceasefire, security guarantees, and direct participation in any territorial talks. He firmly rejected pulling troops out of Donetsk and Luhansk, warning it would open the door to future Russian offensives. “I haven’t heard anything, not a single proposal that would guarantee a new war won’t start tomorrow,” he said. “He (Putin) doesn’t want a sovereign Ukraine. That’s what this whole game is about.”

Speaking at a closed-door briefing with journalists, President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed caution over the Anchorage talks. “Meaningful and productive talks about us without us won’t work,” he said.

As US President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin prepare to meet in Alaska on 15 August, Ukraine is bracing for decisions that could shape its future, without its direct involvement. “It’s not entirely clear what happens next,” a source in the President’s Office told the Kyiv Independent. “But it’s clear that we’re about to be a little bit sold out,” they added. Also read: 'His personal victory': Zelensky says Trump-Putin meet is a win for Russia - Here's why Speaking at a closed-door briefing with journalists, President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed caution over the Anchorage talks. “Meaningful and productive talks about us without us won’t work,” he said. “I don’t know what they (the US and Russia) will talk about without us. Probably, they have their own bilateral track,” he added. Russian gains ahead of negotiations The summit comes as Russian forces advance in Donetsk Oblast, pushing towards Dobropillia, an area considered safe just a month earlier. Zelensky said the timing was deliberate. “The purpose of this advance is clear to us: by Aug. 15, to create a certain information backdrop ahead of Putin’s meeting with Trump… suggesting that Russia is moving forward and Ukraine is losing ground,” he noted. For the Ukrainian president, the meeting represents a “personal victory” for Putin, giving him the chance to “break out of isolation” on US soil and delay sanctions. “He is seeking, excuse me, photographs. He needs a photo from his meeting with President Trump,” Zelensky added. Lawmakers warn of a political spectacle Oleksandr Merezhko, head of Ukraine’s parliamentary committee on international policy, described the summit as potentially “a political show.” “In this case, since Trump is a non-classical president and a non-classical diplomat, his meeting at the highest level may be just for show,” he told the Kyiv Independent. Ukraine’s allies have reaffirmed their support for its territorial integrity after Trump publicly floated the idea of a “territory swap” and reports surfaced that Putin wanted a complete withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from Donetsk and Luhansk. Ceasefire signals, but uncertainty over terms Zelensky revealed that US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, fresh from talks with Putin, indicated Russia might agree to a ceasefire. But Kyiv remains unsure about the conditions. The Ukrainian leader said there is a “high likelihood” that Putin will demand a withdrawal from Donetsk and Luhansk, something Trump may implicitly endorse by saying, “The Ukrainians will have to do it.” Zelensky vows no troop withdrawal Zelensky insisted Ukraine would keep pushing for a ceasefire, security guarantees, and direct participation in any territorial talks. He firmly rejected pulling troops out of Donetsk and Luhansk, warning it would open the door to future Russian offensives. “I haven’t heard anything, not a single proposal that would guarantee a new war won’t start tomorrow,” he said. “He (Putin) doesn’t want a sovereign Ukraine. That’s what this whole game is about.”

Speaking at a closed-door briefing with journalists, President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed caution over the Anchorage talks. “Meaningful and productive talks about us without us won’t work,” he said.

'About to be sold out': Ukraine on edge ahead of Trump-Putin meet; Zelensky warns against deals 'about Kyiv without Kyiv'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticised the decision to invite Russian President Vladimir Putin for talks with Donald Trump in the United States, calling it a “personal victory” for Moscow’s leader. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Zelensky ruled out withdrawing troops from the eastern Donbas region as part of any peace deal. His remarks came after Trump floated the idea of negotiating a land swap with Putin to end the conflict.Read more: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-impossible-to-talk-about-ukraine-without-ukraine-zelensky-warns-unjust-peace-would-let-russia-grab-more-land-1755016291581">'Impossible to talk about Ukraine without Ukraine': Zelensky warns 'unjust peace' would let Russia grab more land</a>“We will not withdraw from the Donbas… if we withdraw from the Donbas today, our fortifications, our terrain, the heights we control, we will clearly open a bridgehead for the Russians to prepare an offensive,” Zelensky said. The Donbas covers the eastern Ukrainian regions of Lugansk and Donetsk, both claimed by Russia since its full-scale invasion began in 2022.<h2>Summit in Alaska raises concerns in Kyiv</h2>Friday’s meeting in Alaska will mark the first encounter between a sitting US and Russian president since 2021. Trump has pitched it as an effort to broker peace in a war that has lasted nearly three and a half years. Zelensky, who has not been invited to the talks, fears Russia will present hard-line demands and that Trump might agree to terms that would see Ukraine surrender large areas of territory.He also said the summit would delay new US sanctions on Moscow, measures Trump had previously pledged to impose if Putin refused to end the war. “First, he will meet on US territory, which I consider his personal victory. Second, he is coming out of isolation because he is meeting on US territory. Third, with this meeting, he has somehow postponed sanctions,” Zelensky said.<h2>Possible signal of a ceasefire</h2>Zelensky revealed he had received what he called a “signal” from US envoy Steve Witkoff suggesting Russia might be open to a ceasefire, though he did not give details. “This was the first signal from them,” he added.<h2>US and Russia prepare for talks</h2>Ahead of the summit, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov spoke by phone with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Rubio told a US radio programme that Trump did not view the meeting as a “concession” to Russia. The White House confirmed that the talks were arranged after Putin requested them. Trump’s spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said the goal was “for the president to walk away with a better understanding of how we can end this war”.

President Zelensky criticised Putin’s US invite as a win for Moscow, rejected Trump’s land swap idea, and firmly ruled out withdrawing Ukrainian troops from Donbas, citing serious security risks.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticised the decision to invite Russian President Vladimir Putin for talks with Donald Trump in the United States, calling it a “personal victory” for Moscow’s leader. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Zelensky ruled out withdrawing troops from the eastern Donbas region as part of any peace deal. His remarks came after Trump floated the idea of negotiating a land swap with Putin to end the conflict. Read more: 'Impossible to talk about Ukraine without Ukraine': Zelensky warns 'unjust peace' would let Russia grab more land “We will not withdraw from the Donbas… if we withdraw from the Donbas today, our fortifications, our terrain, the heights we control, we will clearly open a bridgehead for the Russians to prepare an offensive,” Zelensky said. The Donbas covers the eastern Ukrainian regions of Lugansk and Donetsk, both claimed by Russia since its full-scale invasion began in 2022. Summit in Alaska raises concerns in Kyiv Friday’s meeting in Alaska will mark the first encounter between a sitting US and Russian president since 2021. Trump has pitched it as an effort to broker peace in a war that has lasted nearly three and a half years. Zelensky, who has not been invited to the talks, fears Russia will present hard-line demands and that Trump might agree to terms that would see Ukraine surrender large areas of territory. He also said the summit would delay new US sanctions on Moscow, measures Trump had previously pledged to impose if Putin refused to end the war. “First, he will meet on US territory, which I consider his personal victory. Second, he is coming out of isolation because he is meeting on US territory. Third, with this meeting, he has somehow postponed sanctions,” Zelensky said. Possible signal of a ceasefire Zelensky revealed he had received what he called a “signal” from US envoy Steve Witkoff suggesting Russia might be open to a ceasefire, though he did not give details. “This was the first signal from them,” he added. US and Russia prepare for talks Ahead of the summit, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov spoke by phone with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Rubio told a US radio programme that Trump did not view the meeting as a “concession” to Russia. The White House confirmed that the talks were arranged after Putin requested them. Trump’s spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said the goal was “for the president to walk away with a better understanding of how we can end this war”.

President Zelensky criticised Putin’s US invite as a win for Moscow, rejected Trump’s land swap idea, and firmly ruled out withdrawing Ukrainian troops from Donbas, citing serious security risks.

'His personal victory': Zelensky says Trump-Putin meet is a win for Russia - Here's why

The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on Tuesday (August 12) announced that they have received over 100,000 applications from individuals who want to join ICE, with an aim to remove the "worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens" from the United States.&nbsp;Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem called on people to join the ICE department to help defend the homeland.&nbsp;“Our country is calling you to serve at ICE. In the wake of the Biden administration’s failed immigration policies, your country needs dedicated men and women of ICE to get the worst of the worst criminals out of our country. This is a defining moment in our nation’s history. Your skills, your experience, and your courage have never been more essential.&nbsp;Together, we must defend the homeland. JOIN.ICE.GOV.," she said.&nbsp;Notably, ICE waived age limits for new applicants to make it easier for "patriots" to join ICE in its mission to arrest murderers, pedophiles, gang members, rapists, and other criminal illegal aliens from America’s streets.&nbsp;"All ICE law enforcement recruits are required to go through medical screening, drug screening, and complete a physical fitness test," the DHS said in a statement.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-impossible-to-talk-about-ukraine-without-ukraine-zelensky-warns-unjust-peace-would-let-russia-grab-more-land-1755016291581">Also read: 'Impossible to talk about Ukraine without Ukraine': Zelensky warns 'unjust peace' would let Russia grab more land</a><h2>What will ICE offer?</h2>The ICE, backed by the new funding through the recently signed Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill, will offer a combination of incentives, including:<ul><li>A maximum $50,000 signing bonus</li><li>Student loan repayment and forgiveness options</li><li>25% Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP) for HSI Special Agents</li><li>Administratively Uncontrollable Overtime (AUI) for Enforcement Removal Operations (ERO) Deportation Officers &nbsp;</li></ul>Moreover, they will also receive enhanced retirement benefits, according to the Department of Homeland Security website.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-gold-money-and-sex-donald-trump-jeffrey-epstein-prince-andrew-all-part-of-same-little-group-here-s-what-british-historian-alleges-1754998496094">Also read: 'Gold, money and sex': Trump, Epstein, Prince Andrew, all part of same 'little group' - Here's what British historian claims</a>

Notably, ICE waived age limits for new applicants to make it easier for "patriots" to join ICE in its mission to arrest murderers, pedophiles, gang members, rapists, and other criminal illegal aliens from America’s streets.

The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on Tuesday (August 12) announced that they have received over 100,000 applications from individuals who want to join ICE, with an aim to remove the "worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens" from the United States. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem called on people to join the ICE department to help defend the homeland. “Our country is calling you to serve at ICE. In the wake of the Biden administration’s failed immigration policies, your country needs dedicated men and women of ICE to get the worst of the worst criminals out of our country. This is a defining moment in our nation’s history. Your skills, your experience, and your courage have never been more essential. Together, we must defend the homeland. JOIN.ICE.GOV.," she said. Notably, ICE waived age limits for new applicants to make it easier for "patriots" to join ICE in its mission to arrest murderers, pedophiles, gang members, rapists, and other criminal illegal aliens from America’s streets. "All ICE law enforcement recruits are required to go through medical screening, drug screening, and complete a physical fitness test," the DHS said in a statement. Also read: 'Impossible to talk about Ukraine without Ukraine': Zelensky warns 'unjust peace' would let Russia grab more land What will ICE offer? The ICE, backed by the new funding through the recently signed Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill, will offer a combination of incentives, including: A maximum $50,000 signing bonus Student loan repayment and forgiveness options 25% Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP) for HSI Special Agents Administratively Uncontrollable Overtime (AUI) for Enforcement Removal Operations (ERO) Deportation Officers Moreover, they will also receive enhanced retirement benefits, according to the Department of Homeland Security website. Also read: 'Gold, money and sex': Trump, Epstein, Prince Andrew, all part of same 'little group' - Here's what British historian claims

Notably, ICE waived age limits for new applicants to make it easier for "patriots" to join ICE in its mission to arrest murderers, pedophiles, gang members, rapists, and other criminal illegal aliens from America’s streets.

'MISSION: Remove murderers, pedophiles, and terrorists' - Over 10,000 people apply to join ICE amid Trump's immigration crackdown

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that a peace deal with Russia that does not address the real issues would not last and would only embolden Moscow to seize more territory. Speaking after a phone call with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Zelensky said the two discussed “the current diplomatic situation and the opportunities it opens up now.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-it-takes-two-to-tango-trump-says-he-ll-know-in-two-minutes-if-ukraine-ceasefire-deal-with-putin-is-possible-1754930345060">‘It takes two to tango’: Trump says he’ll know in TWO minutes if Ukraine ceasefire deal with Putin is possible</a><h2>Peace without Ukraine’s input ‘impossible’</h2>Zelensky also addressed recent talks between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. He stressed that while such discussions may be important for their bilateral relations, they could not make decisions about Ukraine without Ukrainian involvement. “As for the talks, in any case they are important at the level of leaders. But it is impossible to talk about Ukraine without Ukraine, and no one will accept it,” Zelensky told the Youth Here forum in Kyiv. He added, “The conversation between the president of the United States … and Putin may certainly be important for their bilateral track, but they cannot accept anything about Ukraine without us.”<h2>Erdoğan backs Ukraine’s stance on negotiations</h2>According to Zelensky, Erdoğan made it clear that “any negotiations without Ukraine will not bring lasting peace.” “We understand all risks and threats equally. An imitated rather than genuine peace will not hold for long and will only encourage Russia to seize even more territory,” Zelensky said.Erdoğan’s office confirmed that he welcomed progress in earlier peace talks held in Istanbul but hoped for meaningful steps towards a ceasefire in future rounds. The Turkish leader also expressed readiness to host a summit involving the leaders of Ukraine, the United States and Russia.<h2>Close ties with Türkiye</h2>In a post on X, Zelensky described his talks with Erdoğan as “friendly and substantive,” expressing appreciation for Türkiye’s “sincere and warm attitude” toward Ukraine and its role as a mediator. He said Ukraine was prepared for “any format of meeting aimed at stopping the killings and ending the war” and noted that preparations were underway for high-level events during the upcoming UN General Assembly, with Turkish participation under discussion.

Ukrainian President Zelensky insists peace must address core issues and include Ukraine's input, warning that sidelining Ukraine in talks with Russia risks emboldening Moscow and undermining lasting resolution.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that a peace deal with Russia that does not address the real issues would not last and would only embolden Moscow to seize more territory. Speaking after a phone call with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Zelensky said the two discussed “the current diplomatic situation and the opportunities it opens up now.” Also read: ‘It takes two to tango’: Trump says he’ll know in TWO minutes if Ukraine ceasefire deal with Putin is possible Peace without Ukraine’s input ‘impossible’ Zelensky also addressed recent talks between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. He stressed that while such discussions may be important for their bilateral relations, they could not make decisions about Ukraine without Ukrainian involvement. “As for the talks, in any case they are important at the level of leaders. But it is impossible to talk about Ukraine without Ukraine, and no one will accept it,” Zelensky told the Youth Here forum in Kyiv. He added, “The conversation between the president of the United States … and Putin may certainly be important for their bilateral track, but they cannot accept anything about Ukraine without us.” Erdoğan backs Ukraine’s stance on negotiations According to Zelensky, Erdoğan made it clear that “any negotiations without Ukraine will not bring lasting peace.” “We understand all risks and threats equally. An imitated rather than genuine peace will not hold for long and will only encourage Russia to seize even more territory,” Zelensky said. Erdoğan’s office confirmed that he welcomed progress in earlier peace talks held in Istanbul but hoped for meaningful steps towards a ceasefire in future rounds. The Turkish leader also expressed readiness to host a summit involving the leaders of Ukraine, the United States and Russia. Close ties with Türkiye In a post on X, Zelensky described his talks with Erdoğan as “friendly and substantive,” expressing appreciation for Türkiye’s “sincere and warm attitude” toward Ukraine and its role as a mediator. He said Ukraine was prepared for “any format of meeting aimed at stopping the killings and ending the war” and noted that preparations were underway for high-level events during the upcoming UN General Assembly, with Turkish participation under discussion.

Ukrainian President Zelensky insists peace must address core issues and include Ukraine's input, warning that sidelining Ukraine in talks with Russia risks emboldening Moscow and undermining lasting resolution.

'Impossible to talk about Ukraine without Ukraine': Zelensky warns 'unjust peace' would let Russia grab more land

Ghislaine Maxwell attempted to offer dirt on US President Donald Trump to former President Joe Biden, according to a report by The Daily Mail. The report cites a fellow inmate of Ghislane Maxwell, Kathryn Comolli, in Tallahassee in 2022. According to the report, Comolli stated that Maxwell offered information to Joe Biden in exchange for her release.&nbsp;“I heard her tell another inmate that she had dirt on Trump and that it was going to get her a pardon from Biden. I guess Biden’s camp just didn’t want to go down that route,” said Comolli as reported by Daily Mail.According to the inmate, it was well known to everyone in the prison that she wanted a pardon from Biden. But in any case, Biden reportedly did not want to associate with the most notorious sex trafficker in the country.&nbsp;According to a memo by Biden's Department of Justice from 2022, Ghislane was unreliable and unremorseful; she decides when to reveal facts and those facts change based on her interests. She lied several times about cutting ties, receiving money from Epstein under oath during deposition for a civil lawsuit. “If anything stands out from the defendant’s sentencing submission, it is her complete failure to address her offence conduct and her utter lack of remorse,” read the memo.&nbsp;“There are plenty of absurd rumours out there—but this one, patently false, might just take the cake,” said a lawyer of Maxwell David Oscar Markus.In an unusual move, Ghislane Maxwell was transferred to a cushy low-security prison camp in Bryan, Texas, with no explanation. Earlier on Monday, a New York Judge denied the request of the Federal Government to release the Grand Jury Transcript of Ghislaine Maxwell.&nbsp;"The court's review confirmed that unsealing the grand jury materials would not reveal new information of any consequence," said a New York judge, Paul Engelmayer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to a fellow inmate of Ghislaine Maxwell, Kathryn Comolli, in Tallahassee, it was known to everyone at the prison that she wanted a pardon from Former President Joe Biden.

Ghislaine Maxwell attempted to offer dirt on US President Donald Trump to former President Joe Biden, according to a report by The Daily Mail. The report cites a fellow inmate of Ghislane Maxwell, Kathryn Comolli, in Tallahassee in 2022. According to the report, Comolli stated that Maxwell offered information to Joe Biden in exchange for her release. “I heard her tell another inmate that she had dirt on Trump and that it was going to get her a pardon from Biden. I guess Biden’s camp just didn’t want to go down that route,” said Comolli as reported by Daily Mail. According to the inmate, it was well known to everyone in the prison that she wanted a pardon from Biden. But in any case, Biden reportedly did not want to associate with the most notorious sex trafficker in the country. According to a memo by Biden's Department of Justice from 2022, Ghislane was unreliable and unremorseful; she decides when to reveal facts and those facts change based on her interests. She lied several times about cutting ties, receiving money from Epstein under oath during deposition for a civil lawsuit. “If anything stands out from the defendant’s sentencing submission, it is her complete failure to address her offence conduct and her utter lack of remorse,” read the memo. “There are plenty of absurd rumours out there—but this one, patently false, might just take the cake,” said a lawyer of Maxwell David Oscar Markus. In an unusual move, Ghislane Maxwell was transferred to a cushy low-security prison camp in Bryan, Texas, with no explanation. Earlier on Monday, a New York Judge denied the request of the Federal Government to release the Grand Jury Transcript of Ghislaine Maxwell. "The court's review confirmed that unsealing the grand jury materials would not reveal new information of any consequence," said a New York judge, Paul Engelmayer.

According to a fellow inmate of Ghislaine Maxwell, Kathryn Comolli, in Tallahassee, it was known to everyone at the prison that she wanted a pardon from Former President Joe Biden.

Ghislane Maxwell told fellow inmate she had dirt on Trump-- And planned to use this to get pardon

US President Donald Trump has met with Intel’s chief executive, Lip-Bu Tan, just days after publicly demanding that he step down. The meeting took place on Monday, with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent also in attendance. Posting on Truth Social, Trump described the discussion as “very interesting” and praised Tan’s career journey, calling it “an amazing story.” He added that cabinet members will now spend more time with Tan and share their suggestions with him next week. Intel has not commented on the meeting.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-tariff-deadline-pushed-trump-signs-last-minute-order-to-extend-trade-truce-with-beijing-by-90-days-to-avoid-escalation-1754940562402">US-China tariff deadline pushed: Trump signs last-minute order to extend trade truce with Beijing by 90 days to avoid escalation</a><h2>Why did Trump want Tan to resign?</h2>Last week, Trump used Truth Social to demand that Tan quit “immediately,” citing national security concerns raised by a Republican senator over his links to Chinese firms. “The CEO of INTEL is highly CONFLICTED and must resign, immediately. There is no other solution to this problem,” Trump wrote.<h2>Tan’s response to the criticism</h2>In response, Tan said Intel was working with the Trump administration to address the concerns and ensure officials “have the facts.” He also rejected what he called “a lot of misinformation” about his past roles at Walden International and Cadence Design Systems, insisting he had “always operated within the highest legal and ethical standards.”<h2>Intel’s challenges in the global chip market</h2>Tan, who was born in Malaysia, took over at Intel in March and soon announced layoffs amid a challenging market shaped by White House tariffs and export controls. While Intel remains one of Silicon Valley’s most recognisable names, it has fallen behind Asian rivals TSMC and Samsung, which dominate the semiconductor manufacturing sector. The company’s core strength in chips for traditional computing is also facing pressure as AI technology drives a shift in demand.

President Trump met with Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan days after demanding his resignation over national security concerns. Despite prior criticism, Trump praised Tan’s career and promised further cabinet engagement.

US President Donald Trump has met with Intel’s chief executive, Lip-Bu Tan, just days after publicly demanding that he step down. The meeting took place on Monday, with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent also in attendance. Posting on Truth Social, Trump described the discussion as “very interesting” and praised Tan’s career journey, calling it “an amazing story.” He added that cabinet members will now spend more time with Tan and share their suggestions with him next week. Intel has not commented on the meeting. Also read: US-China tariff deadline pushed: Trump signs last-minute order to extend trade truce with Beijing by 90 days to avoid escalation Why did Trump want Tan to resign? Last week, Trump used Truth Social to demand that Tan quit “immediately,” citing national security concerns raised by a Republican senator over his links to Chinese firms. “The CEO of INTEL is highly CONFLICTED and must resign, immediately. There is no other solution to this problem,” Trump wrote. Tan’s response to the criticism In response, Tan said Intel was working with the Trump administration to address the concerns and ensure officials “have the facts.” He also rejected what he called “a lot of misinformation” about his past roles at Walden International and Cadence Design Systems, insisting he had “always operated within the highest legal and ethical standards.” Intel’s challenges in the global chip market Tan, who was born in Malaysia, took over at Intel in March and soon announced layoffs amid a challenging market shaped by White House tariffs and export controls. While Intel remains one of Silicon Valley’s most recognisable names, it has fallen behind Asian rivals TSMC and Samsung, which dominate the semiconductor manufacturing sector. The company’s core strength in chips for traditional computing is also facing pressure as AI technology drives a shift in demand.

President Trump met with Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan days after demanding his resignation over national security concerns. Despite prior criticism, Trump praised Tan’s career and promised further cabinet engagement.

'Very interesting meeting': Trump meets Intel chief days after saying he ‘must resign’ over conflict of interest

Washington DC Mayor Muriel Bowser has described US President Donald Trump’s move to take control of the city’s police force and deploy the National Guard as “unsettling” and “unprecedented.” Trump announced on Monday that he would federalise the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and send 800 National Guard troops to the streets, invoking emergency powers under the District of Columbia’s Home Rule Act. “This is liberation day in DC and we’re going to take our capital back,” Trump declared.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-tariff-deadline-pushed-trump-signs-last-minute-order-to-extend-trade-truce-with-beijing-by-90-days-to-avoid-escalation-1754940562402">US-China tariff deadline pushed: Trump signs last-minute order to extend trade truce with Beijing by 90 days to avoid escalation</a><h2>Crime has fallen sharply, says Bowser</h2>Bowser defended the city’s progress on crime, noting that violent offences had fallen 35% in 2024 and a further 26% in the first seven months of 2025. “Crime isn’t just down from 2023. It’s also down from 2019 before the pandemic. And we’re at a 30-year violent crime low. We’re not satisfied. We haven’t taken our foot off the gas,” she said. While she acknowledged a spike in violence post-COVID, Bowser said the city had acted quickly to target offenders and equip police with more resources.<h2>‘Unprecedented’ federal move under Home Rule powers</h2>The Home Rule Charter gives the president authority to assume control of the MPD in emergencies for up to 30 days, though Bowser stressed that Police Chief Pamela Smith and her 3,100 officers remain under the chief’s direction. Bowser said she only learned of the request for MPD’s services after the fact, believing the announcement would focus on the National Guard. She also said all law enforcement officers operating in the city should be identifiable by uniforms or badges. She has reached out to Attorney General Pam Bondi for a meeting and vowed city services will continue, including the start of the school year on 25 August.<h2>Trump cites public safety emergency</h2>The president claimed the capital was “overtaken by violent gangs and bloodthirsty criminals,” citing the recent assault on a staff member as evidence of a wider safety crisis. He described the action as “historic” and said it would “rescue our nation’s capital from crime, bloodshed, bedlam and squalor, and worse.” Trump also warned that “Crime, Savagery, Filth, and Scum will DISAPPEAR.” Drug Enforcement Agency Administrator Terry Cole has been named as the MPD’s new leader during the federal control period. Trump also said the military could be deployed if necessary.<h2>National Guard to hit the streets within days</h2>Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said the National Guard would be “flowing into the streets of Washington” in the coming week and could be reinforced with specialised units. “They will be strong, they will be tough and they will stand with their law enforcement partners,” Hegseth said. Trump’s decision marks the first time section 740 of the Home Rule Act has been invoked. The last large-scale deployment of the DC National Guard under his leadership came during protests in his first term, and more recently in June when nearly 5,000 guardsmen were sent to Los Angeles to respond to unrest.

Mayor Bowser criticised Trump’s unprecedented move to federalise DC police and deploy the National Guard, calling it unsettling. She highlighted significant crime reductions and defended the city’s efforts to maintain safety.

Washington DC Mayor Muriel Bowser has described US President Donald Trump’s move to take control of the city’s police force and deploy the National Guard as “unsettling” and “unprecedented.” Trump announced on Monday that he would federalise the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and send 800 National Guard troops to the streets, invoking emergency powers under the District of Columbia’s Home Rule Act. “This is liberation day in DC and we’re going to take our capital back,” Trump declared. Also read: US-China tariff deadline pushed: Trump signs last-minute order to extend trade truce with Beijing by 90 days to avoid escalation Crime has fallen sharply, says Bowser Bowser defended the city’s progress on crime, noting that violent offences had fallen 35% in 2024 and a further 26% in the first seven months of 2025. “Crime isn’t just down from 2023. It’s also down from 2019 before the pandemic. And we’re at a 30-year violent crime low. We’re not satisfied. We haven’t taken our foot off the gas,” she said. While she acknowledged a spike in violence post-COVID, Bowser said the city had acted quickly to target offenders and equip police with more resources. ‘Unprecedented’ federal move under Home Rule powers The Home Rule Charter gives the president authority to assume control of the MPD in emergencies for up to 30 days, though Bowser stressed that Police Chief Pamela Smith and her 3,100 officers remain under the chief’s direction. Bowser said she only learned of the request for MPD’s services after the fact, believing the announcement would focus on the National Guard. She also said all law enforcement officers operating in the city should be identifiable by uniforms or badges. She has reached out to Attorney General Pam Bondi for a meeting and vowed city services will continue, including the start of the school year on 25 August. Trump cites public safety emergency The president claimed the capital was “overtaken by violent gangs and bloodthirsty criminals,” citing the recent assault on a staff member as evidence of a wider safety crisis. He described the action as “historic” and said it would “rescue our nation’s capital from crime, bloodshed, bedlam and squalor, and worse.” Trump also warned that “Crime, Savagery, Filth, and Scum will DISAPPEAR.” Drug Enforcement Agency Administrator Terry Cole has been named as the MPD’s new leader during the federal control period. Trump also said the military could be deployed if necessary. National Guard to hit the streets within days Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said the National Guard would be “flowing into the streets of Washington” in the coming week and could be reinforced with specialised units. “They will be strong, they will be tough and they will stand with their law enforcement partners,” Hegseth said. Trump’s decision marks the first time section 740 of the Home Rule Act has been invoked. The last large-scale deployment of the DC National Guard under his leadership came during protests in his first term, and more recently in June when nearly 5,000 guardsmen were sent to Los Angeles to respond to unrest.

Mayor Bowser criticised Trump’s unprecedented move to federalise DC police and deploy the National Guard, calling it unsettling. She highlighted significant crime reductions and defended the city’s efforts to maintain safety.

‘Unsettling, unprecedented’: Washington DC Mayor Bowser hits back at Trump’s federal takeover of police

US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order delaying the return of high US tariffs on Chinese goods for another 90 days, a White House official confirmed on Monday. The truce between Washington and Beijing had been due to expire at 00:01 on 12 August (04:01 GMT), but the decision came just hours before the deadline.<h2>Last-minute order signed before tariff pause expired</h2>Trump’s move prevents duties from snapping back to their previous levels, which were among the highest of the US-China trade war. Without the extension, tariffs could have jumped as high as 245% on some Chinese goods, while Beijing had threatened retaliatory measures of up to 125%. The order followed the latest round of negotiations between US and Chinese trade officials in Stockholm late last month.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-it-takes-two-to-tango-trump-says-he-ll-know-in-two-minutes-if-ukraine-ceasefire-deal-with-putin-is-possible-1754930345060">‘It takes two to tango’: Trump says he’ll know in TWO minutes if Ukraine ceasefire deal with Putin is possible</a><h2>China calls for ‘positive’ trade outcomes</h2>Earlier on Monday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian urged the US to build on “important consensus” reached during a recent call between the two leaders. “We hope that the US will work with China … and strive for positive outcomes on the basis of equality, respect and mutual benefit,” Lin said in a statement.<h2>Tariff war history and current rates</h2>The US and China agreed in May to pause most tariffs after initial talks in Geneva. That 90-day truce was set to expire on Tuesday before Trump signed the extension. Currently, US imports from China face a baseline tariff of 10%, plus an additional 20% in response to US allegations of fentanyl smuggling. Some Chinese goods are taxed at higher rates. US exports to China are subject to tariffs of around 30%.<h2>Trump pushes China to buy more US soybeans</h2>On Sunday, Trump posted on TruthSocial calling for China to quadruple its purchases of US soybeans to help cut the trade deficit. In a separate development ahead of the deadline, chipmakers Nvidia and AMD agreed to pay the US government 15% of revenue from advanced chips sold to China in exchange for export licences.

President Trump signed a last-minute executive order delaying high US tariffs on Chinese goods for 90 days, preventing major increases and easing tensions following trade talks in Stockholm.

US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order delaying the return of high US tariffs on Chinese goods for another 90 days, a White House official confirmed on Monday. The truce between Washington and Beijing had been due to expire at 00:01 on 12 August (04:01 GMT), but the decision came just hours before the deadline. Last-minute order signed before tariff pause expired Trump’s move prevents duties from snapping back to their previous levels, which were among the highest of the US-China trade war. Without the extension, tariffs could have jumped as high as 245% on some Chinese goods, while Beijing had threatened retaliatory measures of up to 125%. The order followed the latest round of negotiations between US and Chinese trade officials in Stockholm late last month. Also read: ‘It takes two to tango’: Trump says he’ll know in TWO minutes if Ukraine ceasefire deal with Putin is possible China calls for ‘positive’ trade outcomes Earlier on Monday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian urged the US to build on “important consensus” reached during a recent call between the two leaders. “We hope that the US will work with China … and strive for positive outcomes on the basis of equality, respect and mutual benefit,” Lin said in a statement. Tariff war history and current rates The US and China agreed in May to pause most tariffs after initial talks in Geneva. That 90-day truce was set to expire on Tuesday before Trump signed the extension. Currently, US imports from China face a baseline tariff of 10%, plus an additional 20% in response to US allegations of fentanyl smuggling. Some Chinese goods are taxed at higher rates. US exports to China are subject to tariffs of around 30%. Trump pushes China to buy more US soybeans On Sunday, Trump posted on TruthSocial calling for China to quadruple its purchases of US soybeans to help cut the trade deficit. In a separate development ahead of the deadline, chipmakers Nvidia and AMD agreed to pay the US government 15% of revenue from advanced chips sold to China in exchange for export licences.

President Trump signed a last-minute executive order delaying high US tariffs on Chinese goods for 90 days, preventing major increases and easing tensions following trade talks in Stockholm.

US-China tariff deadline pushed: Trump signs last-minute order to extend trade truce with Beijing by 90 days to avoid escalation

US President Donald Trump has confirmed he will consult with both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders before his planned talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Praising his European counterparts as “great people, great leaders,” Trump claimed they are “tired” of the ongoing conflict and “want to get back to spending money on their countries.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-the-history-politics-and-strategy-why-trump-picked-alaska-for-putin-talks-and-not-washington-or-new-york-1754848857540">'The history, politics and strategy': Why Trump picked Alaska for Putin talks, and not Washington or New York</a><h2>‘They rely on me’ says Trump of European leaders</h2>Trump said he has an “extremely good” relationship with leaders across Europe, joking: “There are a lot of European leaders, but they rely on me.” “So I’m talking to the European leaders, I’ll be talking to President Zelensky. I’m going to get everybody’s ideas. I go into that thing fully loaded right up there, and we’re going to see what happens,” he said. The president added that he sees two possible outcomes from his meeting with Putin, “It could be a good meeting, and we’ll go a step further. We’ll get it done. I’d like to see a ceasefire very, very quickly, very quick. I’d like to see it immediately.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-it-takes-two-to-tango-trump-says-he-ll-know-in-two-minutes-if-ukraine-ceasefire-deal-with-putin-is-possible-1754930345060">‘It takes two to tango’: Trump says he’ll know in TWO minutes if Ukraine ceasefire deal with Putin is possible</a><h2>Germany to host virtual talks with EU and NATO leaders</h2>Earlier, Berlin confirmed that Chancellor Friedrich Merz will hold “virtual talks” involving leaders from Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Poland and the UK, as well as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President António Costa and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. The discussions will include Zelensky and will be followed by a separate call with Trump and his vice-president, JD Vance.<h2>Peace talks and pressure on Russia on the agenda</h2>A statement from Merz’s office said the talks will explore “further options for exerting pressure on Russia” and prepare “possible peace negotiations,” including discussions on “related issues of territorial claims and security.” Trump said he hopes these consultations will pave the way for “great success” in the upcoming discussions with Putin.

Trump plans to consult Zelensky and European leaders before meeting Putin, aiming for a quick ceasefire. He praised European leaders, emphasised strong ties, and sought input for productive talks.

US President Donald Trump has confirmed he will consult with both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders before his planned talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Praising his European counterparts as “great people, great leaders,” Trump claimed they are “tired” of the ongoing conflict and “want to get back to spending money on their countries.” Also read: 'The history, politics and strategy': Why Trump picked Alaska for Putin talks, and not Washington or New York ‘They rely on me’ says Trump of European leaders Trump said he has an “extremely good” relationship with leaders across Europe, joking: “There are a lot of European leaders, but they rely on me.” “So I’m talking to the European leaders, I’ll be talking to President Zelensky. I’m going to get everybody’s ideas. I go into that thing fully loaded right up there, and we’re going to see what happens,” he said. The president added that he sees two possible outcomes from his meeting with Putin, “It could be a good meeting, and we’ll go a step further. We’ll get it done. I’d like to see a ceasefire very, very quickly, very quick. I’d like to see it immediately.” Also read: ‘It takes two to tango’: Trump says he’ll know in TWO minutes if Ukraine ceasefire deal with Putin is possible Germany to host virtual talks with EU and NATO leaders Earlier, Berlin confirmed that Chancellor Friedrich Merz will hold “virtual talks” involving leaders from Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Poland and the UK, as well as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President António Costa and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. The discussions will include Zelensky and will be followed by a separate call with Trump and his vice-president, JD Vance. Peace talks and pressure on Russia on the agenda A statement from Merz’s office said the talks will explore “further options for exerting pressure on Russia” and prepare “possible peace negotiations,” including discussions on “related issues of territorial claims and security.” Trump said he hopes these consultations will pave the way for “great success” in the upcoming discussions with Putin.

Trump plans to consult Zelensky and European leaders before meeting Putin, aiming for a quick ceasefire. He praised European leaders, emphasised strong ties, and sought input for productive talks.

'Europe is tired of the war’: Trump to call Zelensky and Europe ahead of Putin meeting

US President Donald Trump on Monday (August 11) described his upcoming meeting with Vladimir Putin as “a feel out meeting,” but believes the Russian leader “wants to get it over with.” “I’m going in to speak to Vladimir Putin, and I’m going to be telling him, you have got to end this war, you got to end it,” he said. Trump added that he hoped for “a constructive” discussion and planned to brief European leaders shortly after.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-the-history-politics-and-strategy-why-trump-picked-alaska-for-putin-talks-and-not-washington-or-new-york-1754848857540">'The history, politics and strategy': Why Trump picked Alaska for Putin talks, and not Washington or New York</a><h2>Calls planned to European leaders after Putin talks</h2>“Then after that meeting, immediately, maybe as I’m flying out, maybe as I’m leaving the room, I’ll be calling the European leaders who I get along with very well,” Trump said. He noted that he maintains a “great relationship” with European leaders and with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, but stressed he “very, very severely” disagrees with Zelensky’s actions. “This is a war that should have never happened … but I’ll be speaking to Zelensky. The next meeting will be with Zelensky and Putin, or Zelensky and Putin with me there if they need me,” he added.<h2>Frustration over Zelensky’s stance on land swap</h2>Trump expressed irritation with Zelensky’s insistence on constitutional approval for certain negotiations. He said, “I was a little bothered by the fact that Zelensky was saying, Well, I have to get constitutional approval. I mean, he’s got approval to go into war and kill everybody, but he needs approval to do a land swap?” He claimed that “there’ll be some land swapping going on” as part of any settlement, a mix of “good” and “bad” for both sides due to “very uneven” territorial lines.<h2>Deal-making ‘up to Ukraine’</h2>Trump insisted that while he could broker a framework, the decision would rest with Kyiv. “I’m going to meet with him [Putin]. We’re going to see what the parameters are, and then I’m going to call up President Zelensky and the European leaders … and I’m going to tell them what kind of a deal. I’m not going to make a deal. It’s not up to me to make a deal. I think a deal should be made for both,” he added.<h2>Confident he’ll know within minutes if a deal is possible</h2>Asked about Zelensky’s attendance at the Friday summit, Trump replied: “I would say he could go, but he’s gone to a lot of meetings.” Regarding the Putin meeting, he said, “Probably in the first two minutes, I’ll know exactly whether or not a deal can be [made].” When asked why, Trump responded, “Because that’s what I do. I make deals.” Ultimately, he said, “I’d like to see a ceasefire. I’d like to see the best deal that could be made for both parties. You know, it takes two to tango, right?”

Trump called his upcoming Putin meeting a "feel out meeting," aiming to urge ending the war. He plans follow-up calls with European leaders and hopes for talks involving Zelensky soon.

US President Donald Trump on Monday (August 11) described his upcoming meeting with Vladimir Putin as “a feel out meeting,” but believes the Russian leader “wants to get it over with.” “I’m going in to speak to Vladimir Putin, and I’m going to be telling him, you have got to end this war, you got to end it,” he said. Trump added that he hoped for “a constructive” discussion and planned to brief European leaders shortly after. Also read: 'The history, politics and strategy': Why Trump picked Alaska for Putin talks, and not Washington or New York Calls planned to European leaders after Putin talks “Then after that meeting, immediately, maybe as I’m flying out, maybe as I’m leaving the room, I’ll be calling the European leaders who I get along with very well,” Trump said. He noted that he maintains a “great relationship” with European leaders and with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, but stressed he “very, very severely” disagrees with Zelensky’s actions. “This is a war that should have never happened … but I’ll be speaking to Zelensky. The next meeting will be with Zelensky and Putin, or Zelensky and Putin with me there if they need me,” he added. Frustration over Zelensky’s stance on land swap Trump expressed irritation with Zelensky’s insistence on constitutional approval for certain negotiations. He said, “I was a little bothered by the fact that Zelensky was saying, Well, I have to get constitutional approval. I mean, he’s got approval to go into war and kill everybody, but he needs approval to do a land swap?” He claimed that “there’ll be some land swapping going on” as part of any settlement, a mix of “good” and “bad” for both sides due to “very uneven” territorial lines. Deal-making ‘up to Ukraine’ Trump insisted that while he could broker a framework, the decision would rest with Kyiv. “I’m going to meet with him [Putin]. We’re going to see what the parameters are, and then I’m going to call up President Zelensky and the European leaders … and I’m going to tell them what kind of a deal. I’m not going to make a deal. It’s not up to me to make a deal. I think a deal should be made for both,” he added. Confident he’ll know within minutes if a deal is possible Asked about Zelensky’s attendance at the Friday summit, Trump replied: “I would say he could go, but he’s gone to a lot of meetings.” Regarding the Putin meeting, he said, “Probably in the first two minutes, I’ll know exactly whether or not a deal can be [made].” When asked why, Trump responded, “Because that’s what I do. I make deals.” Ultimately, he said, “I’d like to see a ceasefire. I’d like to see the best deal that could be made for both parties. You know, it takes two to tango, right?”

Trump called his upcoming Putin meeting a "feel out meeting," aiming to urge ending the war. He plans follow-up calls with European leaders and hopes for talks involving Zelensky soon.

‘It takes two to tango’: Trump says he’ll know in TWO minutes if Ukraine ceasefire deal with Putin is possible