Washington/Alaska – U.S. President Donald Trump told Fox News that during his recent meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, the two leaders discussed ending the war in Ukraine through land swaps and U.S. security guarantees.

Trump advised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to negotiate with Russia, adding: “Russia is a very powerful country and has great soldiers, but Ukraine is not a great power.”

On the question of returning previously Ukrainian territories to Russia and potential U.S. security guarantees, Trump said: “I think these were some of the things we discussed and largely agreed upon. In fact, I think we are in agreement on many things. I can say it was a warm meeting.”

Trump described Putin as a “powerful” and “very tough” leader but said the talks were positive, noting: “I think we are very close to the end. Of course, Ukraine must also agree.”

He emphasized that the final decision rests with Zelenskyy and that European countries should also play a role. Trump indicated he would participate in a future meeting if required, potentially a trilateral discussion with Zelenskyy and Putin to seek a path to peace.

At a joint press conference after the Alaska summit, Trump said significant progress had been made, though a formal agreement had not yet been reached: “We had a very productive session. Many points were agreed upon, though a few major items remain unresolved. Until everything is agreed, there is no deal.”

Trump also addressed the “Russia investigation” from his first presidential term, acknowledging it complicated past negotiations with Putin but saying the Russian president understood the context.

Putin noted the need to restore U.S.-Russia relations and stated: “We have established very good direct contacts with Trump. Ukraine was one of the main topics, and we see Trump’s willingness to understand the nature of the conflict.”

Regarding the conflict, Putin said: “We are sincerely interested in ending the hostilities. But all root causes must be addressed, and all Russian concerns must be considered.” He added his agreement with Trump that Ukraine’s security must be guaranteed.

Putin indicated that the next meeting with Trump could take place in Moscow, responding in English: “Next time in Moscow.”