NATO Signals Possible De Facto Russian Control in Ukraine Ahead Trump-Putin Summit

European and NATO officials signal a potential shift toward accepting Russia's de facto control over parts of Ukraine as part of a peace plan, while strongly emphasizing Ukraine's sovereignty and future decision-making autonomy. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has rejected proposals that would force Ukraine to cede additional territory beyond that already occupied by Russia, insisting that territorial questions are settled by Ukraine's constitution. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte described the upcoming summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska as a critical test of Russia's willingness to end the war, focusing on territory, security guarantees, and Ukraine's sovereignty. Rutte stressed that any territorial recognition must be practical and not formal or political and highlighted the importance of security guarantees for Ukraine, including no restrictions on its military or NATO presence on the eastern flank. Despite concerns from some European leaders and officials about a one-sided territorial swap, Trump’s administration is viewed as maintaining pressure on Russia through sanctions and weapons support for Ukraine. The summit and ongoing negotiations aim to move beyond a ceasefire toward lasting security arrangements while balancing the complex realities on the ground.