The conflict between Russia and Ukraine shows no signs of ending, with fierce Russian attacks resuming after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky firmly rejected a ceasefire on Russian terms. Zelensky declared he would not cede any Ukrainian land to Russia, effectively eliminating prospects for peace talks under the current conditions. His refusal came just before a scheduled meeting on August 15, 2025, in Alaska between former US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, which was intended to discuss a ceasefire plan.

Reports indicate that Trump has agreed to Putin’s proposal, which involves Ukraine conceding control of parts of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhia, Kherson, and international recognition of Crimea as Russian territory. While Trump sees this as a difficult but necessary step for peace, Zelensky’s stance reflects overwhelming opposition within Ukraine; a majority of Ukrainians oppose any land concessions to Russia. The Ukrainian army and citizens are united in demanding a ceasefire that protects Ukraine’s sovereignty, leaving Zelensky little choice but to defy the ceasefire terms outlined by Putin and accepted by Trump.

Following Zelensky’s announcement, Russia launched intensive military operations across six fronts in eastern Ukraine, including heavy airstrikes on cities like Mykolaiv and Odessa. Putin’s strategic goal is to divide Ukraine by seizing the entire eastern region.

The meeting between Trump and Putin in Alaska was preceded by a symbolic gesture: Putin awarded the Order of Lenin to the father of Michael Gloss, a CIA deputy director's son who died fighting for Russia in Ukraine. This act reportedly impressed Trump and influenced his decision to support Putin’s ceasefire terms, setting the stage for the planned summit.

In conclusion, Zelensky’s uncompromising position has escalated the war anew, undermining Trump’s peace efforts with Putin, while Russia intensifies its campaign to occupy eastern Ukraine. The upcoming Alaska summit now faces significant uncertainty with Ukraine refusing to yield land, prolonging the conflict’s fierce and unresolved nature.