U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are set to meet in Anchorage, Alaska, on Friday, August 15, 2025, for a pivotal summit aimed at addressing the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. The meeting, scheduled for 11 a.m. local time , will take place at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, a strategic location chosen for its proximity to Russia and historical significance during the Cold War.

This summit marks the first in-person meeting between the two leaders since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The agenda is expected to focus on potential peace agreements in Ukraine, arms control, and economic cooperation. A joint press conference is planned following the discussions, where both leaders will address the media.

In Anchorage, local communities, particularly Ukrainian refugees and religious leaders, are reacting with a mix of hope and skepticism. Father Vasyl Mutka, a Ukrainian priest in Anchorage, has been praying for peace and wisdom for both leaders. The meeting holds symbolic weight given Alaska's Russian heritage and the significant Ukrainian-American population in the area.

Orthodox Christians across Alaska have also been actively involved in the lead-up to the summit. They held a three-day prayer vigil for peace, particularly in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine. The Orthodox Church in America , which originated from Russian Orthodox missionary efforts in Alaska during the czarist era, led the services. Archbishop Alexei emphasized the church’s spiritual role in promoting peace amidst the conflict, which has deeply divided Orthodox communities in Ukraine and Russia.

As the summit approaches, global leaders, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, express optimism about the potential for peace talks. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky remains skeptical, asserting that Putin seeks full occupation rather than peace. The international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that respects Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The outcome of this summit could significantly reshape the geopolitical landscape, with implications for European security and international relations. Both leaders face domestic and international pressures, making the stakes of this meeting exceptionally high. The world awaits to see if this high-stakes summit will lead to a meaningful resolution of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.