Key takeaways
– Jake Tapper said even Trump fans think Trump got played
– Putin did not agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine
– Trump dropped demands for an immediate ceasefire after the meeting
– Pence urges tougher sanctions against Russia
– Debate grows over Trump’s approach to dictators
Tapper Highlights Shift in Trump’s Demands
Jake Tapper noted a big change after the Trump-Putin summit. First, President Trump had said he would demand an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine. Yet after the meeting, Trump stopped pushing this demand. Tapper pointed out that even some of Trump’s strongest supporters believe he “got played” by Putin. They think Trump came out of the talks with weaker terms than before.
Putin Rejects Ceasefire Demand
Putin did not agree to halt the fighting in Ukraine. In fact, he refused to end attacks or make any concessions. As a result, the war kept raging on. Ukrainian forces faced new shelling and losses. This refusal raises questions about the value of the entire summit.
Five Ukrainians Killed After the Meeting
Tragically, five Ukrainian civilians died just hours after the summit ended. They lost their lives in fresh attacks on their town. This fact underscored a harsh reality. Even high-level talks did not protect innocent people on the ground. Moreover, it showed that Russia could keep fighting without fear of immediate consequences.
Why Some Trump Supporters Feel Betrayed
Some fans of President Trump defend his bold style. However, they noticed how he backed off his own terms. Before the meeting, Trump warned of severe consequences if Russia did not agree to a ceasefire. Yet he dropped that warning after talking to Putin. As a result, many who root for him felt disappointed. They said he let Russia slip out of a tough spot.
Pence Calls for a Tougher Approach
Former Vice President Mike Pence praised Trump’s charm but criticized his softness. He said the president should act like a velvet glove on the outside with a hammer inside. Pence then urged immediate action in Congress. He asked Trump to call Majority Leader John Thune and pass stronger sanctions. Those measures would hit Russia’s economy and pressure Putin. Pence believes this plan has wide support in the Senate.
Stronger Sanctions Could Change the Game
Sanctions could freeze Russian assets, limit trade, and block banks. They could also target key industries like energy and finance. If passed, these steps would raise the cost of Russia’s actions in Ukraine. Supporters say this move would show Putin that the U.S. stays firm. Meanwhile, critics worry about global economic fallout. They fear higher energy prices for consumers worldwide.
Summit Fails to Secure Peace
At the heart of the controversy lies peace in Ukraine. Trump hoped that a meeting alone could force a deal. Yet no ceasefire came. Putin still demands control over the Donbas region. He wants Ukraine to cede that territory. In response, diplomats warn that giving in invites more aggression. They argue that Russia could push farther west next.
What’s Next for Trump and Ukraine
President Zelenskyy will visit the White House soon with European leaders. They will seek more military aid and stronger unity. Trump will host them in the Oval Office. At the same time, Congress will debate the sanctions bill. As a result, Trump faces pressure on two fronts. He must show real support for Ukraine while keeping his summit image.
Where U.S. Policy Stands Now
U.S. policy on Ukraine has relied on military aid and economic penalties. Past sanctions targeted individuals, banks, and energy projects. The new proposal would expand those limits. It could also include a full ban on Russian oil in America. That move would align with Europe’s own steps to cut Russian energy. Yet it could also push oil prices higher at home.
A Test for Trump’s Leadership
This moment tests Trump’s foreign policy style. Will he stick to firm demands or pivot to softer terms? So far, he shifted toward Putin’s position. He dropped the ceasefire call and hinted at a broader peace plan that gives Russia land. Critics say this shows a pattern of caving in to strongmen. Meanwhile, supporters hope he can still secure a real deal.
The Debate Continues
As the debate unfolds, questions remain. Can Congress unite behind tougher sanctions? Will Ukraine’s leaders win more help? And will Trump prove his summit was a success? For now, observers watch closely. They look for clear moves to help Ukraine and hold Russia accountable. Only then will they decide if Trump’s gamble paid off—or if he truly got played.