A leaked Russian video of Trump smiling next to Putin fueled criticism. Some called it propaganda and accused Trump of “fawning,” while others saw it as proof of Putin’s dominance. In Washington, Congressman Eric Swalwell labeled the summit a “humiliation,” warning it played into Russia’s hands. European voices also feared it weakened transatlantic unity.

Not all analysts agreed. Joe Hildebrand argued the optics might push Trump toward “stronger support for Ukraine,” while Dalibor Rohac urged a “maximum pressure” approach to avoid rewarding aggression.

A possible breakthrough came when U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff said Putin agreed in principle to explore NATO-style “Article 5” security guarantees for Ukraine. Though vague, such a step could strengthen Kyiv’s defenses.

European leaders including Macron, Merz, and Starmer will join Zelenskyy in Washington, stressing that “no peace deal can come at the cost of Ukraine’s sovereignty.”

As Trump meets Zelenskyy, the Alaska summit’s legacy lingers: Putin emboldened, Trump softened, and global stability still uncertain.