Trump Suggests Ukraine-Russia Land Swap Before Alaska Talks.
Former US President Donald Trump has hinted at a potential peace deal between Russia and Ukraine that could involve a “swapping of territories.” Speaking ahead of his planned meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on August 15 in Alaska, Trump suggested that such an arrangement might pave the way to ending the prolonged conflict. While he did not share specific details about which territories might be exchanged, Trump emphasized that the goal was to bring stability to the region. The upcoming Alaska talks are expected to be closely watched for their possible impact on global geopolitics and peace negotiations.
Trump Confirms Alaska Summit With Putin, Floats Idea of Ukraine–Russia Territorial Swap
US President Donald Trump on Friday revealed that his administration is considering a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine that could involve the swapping of territories — a controversial and potentially game-changing move in the effort to end the years-long war. The announcement came as Trump confirmed that his first face-to-face meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin during his second term will take place on August 15, 2025, in Alaska.
Speaking to reporters, Trump gave a glimpse into his thinking, framing the proposal as a pragmatic approach to resolving one of the most stubborn conflicts of the 21st century.
“But we’re gonna get some [territory] back. We’re gonna get some switched.
While he stopped short of revealing which territories might be involved or how such exchanges would be negotiated, the president hinted that both Kyiv and Moscow could walk away with concessions they see as beneficial.
The concept of a “land swap” is not new in diplomatic history, but applying it to the Russia–Ukraine conflict would be unprecedented given the geopolitical stakes, the scale of displacement caused by the war, and the deep nationalistic sentiments attached to disputed regions. Analysts note that such a move could be seen as a recognition of Russia’s control over some Ukrainian territories — a position many Western allies have firmly rejected.
Still, Trump portrayed the idea as a bold step toward breaking the stalemate. “You can talk for years, or you can make deals,” he told the press, adding that “the goal is peace, and peace that lasts.”
The Alaska summit, as Trump officially described it, will be held in “the Great State of Alaska,” symbolically close to Russia geographically, though far removed from the frontlines in Eastern Europe. In a formal statement, the president said:
For Trump, it marks his first official engagement with Putin since returning to the White House in January 2025.
High Stakes and Global Attention
The announcement has immediately drawn intense global attention. Supporters of Trump’s approach argue that the president is taking a practical route that could bring an end to years of bloodshed, displacement, and economic disruption. Critics, however, warn that such negotiations could legitimize territorial conquest and set a dangerous precedent in international relations.
Ukraine’s government has not yet publicly responded to Trump’s comments, but officials in Kyiv have repeatedly stated that any peace deal must respect Ukraine’s internationally recognized borders, including Crimea and the eastern territories currently under Russian control.
In Moscow, early reactions have been measured, with Kremlin spokespersons indicating that they will wait for the Alaska meeting before making substantive remarks. Russian state media, however, has already framed Trump’s comments as evidence that Washington may be willing to shift its position in search of a resolution.
The Road to Alaska
The upcoming summit is being prepared under tight security and diplomatic secrecy. Sources familiar with the planning suggest the meeting could span several hours and cover not only the Ukraine war but also arms control, cyber security, and broader US–Russia relations.
The choice of Alaska is noteworthy for more than symbolic reasons. With its historical and geographic ties to Russia — the US purchased Alaska from the Russian Empire in 1867 — the location could serve as a neutral yet significant backdrop for high-level talks. Trump is expected to arrive in Anchorage a day before the meeting, while Putin’s travel plans have not yet been disclosed.
What’s Next
If Trump’s proposal for territorial exchanges gains traction, it could set in motion one of the most complex diplomatic negotiations in modern history. It would require not only the agreement of Ukraine and Russia but also careful coordination with NATO allies, the European Union, and other stakeholders.
For now, all eyes are on August 15. Whether the Alaska talks result in a breakthrough or simply another chapter in a long and difficult diplomatic saga remains to be seen.
As Trump himself put it: “We’re not going there for a handshake. We’re going there to get things done.”