(DDM) – Former US President Donald Trump has expressed doubt over what, if anything, has changed in Russian President Vladimir Putin’s stance ahead of their first meeting in six years.
DDM gathered that in recent months, Trump privately asked European leaders and White House aides about any shifts in Putin’s approach.
The two leaders are set to meet Friday in Alaska, where they will discuss ways to end Russia’s prolonged invasion of Ukraine.
Trump has repeatedly claimed he could broker a swift peace deal, even before taking office, but Putin has so far resisted ceasefire proposals.
Instead, Moscow has escalated attacks on Ukrainian territory this year, further straining hopes for a rapid resolution.
Sources familiar with Trump’s remarks say his questioning reflects a mix of frustration and curiosity about Putin’s strategy.
Within the White House, there is cautious optimism that some of Putin’s short-term objectives in Ukraine may have shifted.
However, US intelligence assessments remain skeptical, warning that any apparent flexibility from Moscow could be tactical rather than genuine.
Analysts told DDM that Putin’s battlefield gains and political calculations may leave him reluctant to concede ground at the negotiating table.
They note that while the Alaska summit is symbolically significant — marking the leaders’ first encounter in over half a decade — the path to ending the war remains uncertain.
Diplomatic observers believe both sides will use the meeting to test each other’s willingness to compromise.
For Trump, who has often touted his “warm relationship” with Putin, the talks represent both a political opportunity and a challenge to deliver on his peace promises.
Whether the summit produces tangible steps toward ending the war, or simply reaffirms entrenched positions, will be closely watched by allies and adversaries alike.