Ahead of a critical summit with U.S. President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin made a symbolic gesture by laying flowers at a memorial honoring American and Soviet pilots who died during the WWII Lend-Lease program. The act, just before his flight to Alaska for the meeting, seemed designed to evoke historical cooperation between the two nations.

Speaking at the Kremlin prior to departure, Putin praised the Trump administration’s “energetic” efforts to resolve the Ukraine conflict. He expressed hope that the summit would lay the groundwork for a broader peace—both between Russia and the U.S., and globally. Putin also hinted at the possibility of a nuclear arms control agreement being reached during their talks.

President Trump, speaking aboard Air Force One en route to Alaska, warned of “very severe” economic consequences for Russia if it derailed Ukraine peace efforts. While noting mutual respect with Putin, Trump emphasized the importance of ending the war before any meaningful business cooperation could resume between the two nations.

When asked about potential U.S. security guarantees to Ukraine, Trump left the door open to alternatives outside NATO. He acknowledged that such discussions might involve European partners and indicated openness to broader talks, especially if the summit showed progress. Trump also confirmed he would consider economic talks with Russian business leaders attending the summit—if peace efforts moved forward.

On the topic of territorial concessions, Trump made it clear that he would not negotiate on Ukraine’s behalf but aimed to facilitate dialogue. He claimed that Putin wanted to take all of Ukraine but asserted that this would not happen under his leadership. Trump concluded by stressing the urgency of ending the war and preventing further loss of life.

WATCH: