EmeraldR
The Living Force
Alaska has the advantages of being a relatively short trip from Russia and being USA territory, the US can better control security and being far from outside forces who might wish to disrupt it or bring harm to the Russian President. There is of course a risk from forces in the USA itself but the resulting escalation would go immediately to WW3 and would destroy any diplomatic credibility the US has left after the Iran debacle. With no way to avert the blame from the US in such a situation it would seem unlikely. Ultimately, it’s a risk Putin seems willing to take, it remains to be seen whether it will be worth it.
Not only does Alaska provide a level of security it allows Trump to frame the situation as Putin coming to him rather than the other way round; important for appearances given the weak negotiating position of the US. Though its clear it was very much Witkoff who asked for this meeting on behalf of Trump. Trump needs some progress on the Ukraine issue to avoid his own Russia and allies sanction ultimatum that would backfire on the US.
As pointed out by the folk at ‘The Duran’ Youtube channel this move also means the summit is also isolated from the UK, the EU and Zelensky and Ukraine. Already the aforementioned parties are panicking and have organised a joint meeting today.
Trumps own words should be taken with caution given how much he can shift from one day to the next and the current plan is for the meeting to take place on the 15th August still days away. Messaging from him and the Whitehouse has been chaotic and I increasingly get the impression Trump is ‘winging it’ to some extent. Currently Trump is suggesting an exchange of territory will be agreed as mentioned in the above posts.
I’m not sure what to expect out of this, will it end up as anything more than a media spectacle? Afterall, even if an agreement is made will Trump be able to enforce it? There may also be sudden attempts to escalate the situation from previously mentioned troublemakers and derail the threat of peace talks.
Final thoughts. Trump wants a show, Putin wants a lasting peace each may be open to compromise if it will reach these goals.
getting the candles out and will be dedicating the day to peace and prayers
August 15th
Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Feast of the Assumption
The Feast of the Assumption celebrates the Virgin Mary's ascension to Heaven. Learn more about this important Christian holiday and how it is celebrated throughout the world.

