U.S., Russia, and Ukraine: Summit Sparks Hope for Peace and Deal-Making

The upcoming U.S.-Russia summit in Alaska is seen as a significant win for Putin, as it marks Russia's return from diplomatic isolation and could influence the Ukraine conflict, despite low expectations for progress. The summit, excluding Ukraine's Zelensky, has caused concern among European leaders and may serve Russia's strategic interests by undermining NATO and delaying sanctions, with Putin aiming to secure U.S. support for his proposals and possibly discuss broader issues like economic ties and nuclear arms.