International Desk //

US President Donald Trump is on his way to Anchorage on Air Force One to attend a much-discussed meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska.

Speaking to reporters en route, he said that whether or not a territorial land swap between Ukraine and Russia will take place will depend on Ukraine’s decision. His goal is to bring the two sides to the negotiating table.

Al Jazeera reported this in a report on Friday (August 15).

According to Trump, the Russian invasion of Ukraine is probably being carried out to strengthen Putin’s negotiating position. He said, “It’s actually hurting him, but he (Putin) feels that if they can continue the killing, it will help him make a good deal.”

The US president expressed hope that his meeting with Putin will be fruitful – because both the importance of the situation and the weakness of the Russian economy will play a role in this.

Before leaving, Trump told reporters, “He (Putin) is a smart guy, he’s been doing it for a long time, but I’ve been doing it for a long time… We respect each other, and I think it’s going to work out.”

Trump also said that Putin is bringing business leaders from Russia with him – he sees this as a positive signal. However, Trump made it clear that no deal can be made until the war is resolved.

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