The upcoming Alaska summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin is drawing global attention as a potential turning point in the Ukrainian conflict and European stability. This summit is of particular importance for four main parties: Donald Trump, who aims to facilitate a peace agreement and potentially be recognized with a Nobel Peace Prize; Vladimir Putin, who seeks to prevent NATO expansion; Volodymyr Zelensky, who is working to protect Ukraine’s independence; and the European Union, which seeks to avert a resolution that favors Russia.
A key question at the Alaska summit is whether a ceasefire will be achieved or whether the conflict will escalate to a wider war. Trump is focused on obtaining a ceasefire and has proposed a West Bank-style approach for Ukraine.
This model, mirroring the situation in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, would allow Russia to retain control of territories it has captured without formally annexing them. This proposal was developed by Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, and will be presented to Putin. The summit will not discuss specific border demarcations; however, it will propose Russian control over the seized Ukrainian territories while the land remains under Ukrainian sovereignty.
The core elements of the proposed West Bank model include:
* The continued Ukrainian control of its territory.
* No changes to Ukraine’s borders.
* Russian control of the occupied territories.
* The deployment of Russian military forces.
* The creation of a civil administration.
* Russian control over mineral resources.
Trump’s plan is designed to cease the fighting, but its success hinges on Putin’s agreement and the willingness of Ukraine and Europe to accept the model. The adoption of the West Bank model in Ukraine could lead to ongoing armed conflict in eastern Ukraine, more militant activities, and instability in nearby Baltic countries, as well as potentially unrest in many European nations. The European countries are likely to oppose the West Bank model. If Trump and Putin come to an agreement, the only option for Europe might be a large-scale war.
A large-scale war could arise if the West Bank plan is put into action. The coalition of 33 nations might oppose Trump’s plan, potentially increasing aid to Ukraine and leading European countries to enter the war against Russia, therefore increasing the risk of a global conflict. Some speculate that the former U.S. President’s efforts toward peace could ironically cause a major war.
Trump, hoping to be acknowledged for his peacemaking role, is reportedly keen on securing a ceasefire. He wants to halt the war between Russia and Ukraine and has prepared an attractive offer for Putin. The offer includes giving Russia a share of Alaska’s resources.
Trump is prepared to offer Russia a share in Alaska’s mineral riches. Treasury Secretary Scott Baesant prepared this offer and includes rare earth minerals, renewable energy minerals, and minerals essential for the defense sector. The resources exist at the Bokan Mountain, Ray Mountain, and Windy Fork regions.
Trump has readied a complete package that includes minerals, land, and financial incentives for Putin. The United States could possibly lessen its sanctions on Russia. The U.S. Treasury Department already eased the constraints on Russia’s international financial transactions, which is critical for Putin’s Alaska trip, in preparation for the summit. As Putin’s plane readies for departure for Alaska, the crucial question remains: Will Trump’s offer lead to peace or act as the basis for a major war?