Trump Vows Tough Stance Ahead of Putin Summit on Ukraine

By Diafa Doubra,

U.S. President Donald Trump has declared he will not allow Russian President Vladimir Putin to “mess around with me” as the two prepare for a high stakes summit in Alaska focused on the war in Ukraine. Speaking to reporters, Trump said he was “75% confident” a deal could be reached and hinted at involving Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the talks raising speculation over possible territorial compromises.

The meeting comes amid heightened tensions, with critics warning that any concessions could undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty. Meanwhile, Trump has expanded federal control over policing in Washington, D.C., deploying the National Guard and accusing city officials of manipulating crime data. His administration is also threatening legal action against sanctuary cities, setting the stage for a politically charged week both at home and abroad.