Trump privately discusses possibility of 'carrots' for Putin – Media

President Trump has publicly stated that the main focus of his meeting with Putin would be on resolving the war in Ukraine. However, privately, officials in Trump’s circle say that Putin allegedly needs to be offered "carrots" to push him toward progress on peace in Ukraine.

Potential incentives being considered include new business deals with Russia. Another option could be the conclusion of a new strategic arms treaty between the two countries. Ahead of the summit, Russian and US officials discussed these two issues.

One US official confirmed that there is a willingness to discuss a strategic arms treaty. However, the details of such an agreement are unlikely to be addressed at the highest level, involving Trump and Putin directly.

Another obstacle from the White House’s perspective is Europe’s stance. Trump’s officials complain that Europe "does not understand" the need to involve Russia at the negotiating table.

"The Europeans have not thought about carrots for years," one official said, referring to the possibility of "carrots" for the Kremlin in exchange for a willingness to end the war in Ukraine.

Another official added that Europe’s refusal to have any discussions with Russia about anything that could be perceived as a reward for its invasion of Ukraine is "childish and impractical."

Alaska summit: What is known

US President Donald Trump and Russian President met in Anchorage, Alaska. There, they will hold negotiations, with the central topic being the war in Ukraine. More details are available in the RBC-Ukraine report.

For more on what led up to the US-Russia summit in Alaska and what to expect next, read the separate analytical piece by RBC-Ukraine.