Trump Faces Criticism After Unfruitful Putin Summit on Ukraine

WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump is facing backlash after his summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin failed to deliver a peace deal for Ukraine. The meeting, which was highly anticipated, took place on September 1, 2025, amid rising tensions and ongoing conflict.

During a segment on NewsNight, host Laura Ingraham questioned two guests, Scott Jennings and Phillip Shapiro, about the summit’s outcome, expressing disbelief that Putin was serious about peace negotiations. “Who could have guessed, that Vladimir Putin was not serious about peace?” Ingraham asked, rolling her eyes.

Prior to the summit, Trump had promised reporters that he was “pretty close to a deal” that would lead to a ceasefire in Ukraine. However, the meeting concluded with vague claims from both leaders, yet no solid agreement or armistice was established.

Critics have accused Trump of giving legitimacy to Putin through the summit’s pageantry, all while Russia has continued its aggressive military operations in Ukraine. Recent aerial attacks in Kyiv have targeted international offices, exacerbating the crisis.

Jennings acknowledged the disapproval towards Trump’s approach, stating, “I think he thought he should try… now Putin is doing what many people thought was possible.” Trump had previously warned of “very severe consequences” for Russia if the conflict continued, yet no sanctions have been enacted since the summit.

Shapiro defended Trump by highlighting that he has not obstructed military support for Ukraine, saying, “We’re ripping him for what, not being hawkish enough?” Phillip countered that the perceptions around Trump have shifted, noting that he had promised to end the war swiftly.

In the wake of criticism, Trump has shifted his focus to China, writing on social media a congratulatory message ahead of a large military parade attended by leaders from Russia and North Korea. He referenced his discussions with these leaders in a tone suggesting tension with the U.S.

The summit’s dismal results have left many questioning Trump’s foreign policy strategy and his ability to navigate complex international relations.