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In a quiet corner of northeastern Ohio, where neighbors still greet each other on the street and the community relies on traditions of mutual help, the small town of LaGrange faces a painful loss. The only grocery store, LaGrange IGA, which served not only as a source of food but also as a social hub, is closing on August 23. The announcement on the door, which appeared on Friday, shocked local residents: the building has been purchased by the owner, and the fate of the remaining stock remains uncertain. For many, this is not just the end of a business — it is a rupture in the fabric of a community already teetering on the brink of survival in the era of corporate giants.Erika Domek, the store owner who grew up within these walls, does not hide her emotions. “I grew up here,” she told us in an interview ahead of the closure. “Our children were here as babies, I kept a playpen in the back room. It tears my heart apart.” Her husband Jeff adds: “We supported the community, and it supported us. Today is just a sad day.” The Domek couple purchased the business in 2023, continuing the work of Erika's parents, who managed the store since 2010. They not only sold groceries but also organized charity events: a recent car show in the parking lot raised over $13,000 for families of fallen Lorain County police officers.But behind these warm memories lies harsh reality. Independent grocery stores in rural America like LaGrange IGA face insurmountable challenges: soaring food prices, competition from giants like Walmart and Meijer who have purchasing advantages, and aging equipment that is difficult to maintain. “Prices for beef and other products have hit record highs,” Jeff Domek explains. “We are competing with giants that set the rules.” Industry insiders, whom I have spoken with over years of covering economic trends in the Midwest, confirm that small stores often cannot withstand the pressure from dollar store chains like Dollar General, which penetrate rural areas offering cheap alternatives but without fresh produce. Studies show that in rural areas, independent grocers close three times more often after such competitors emerge, turning communities into “food deserts” — areas where access to fresh food is limited.Residents of LaGrange already feel the blow. Tina Pribulska, a regular customer who visited almost daily, says: “This small town, everyone is friendly, we know each other. The store did so much for us.” Paul Schaffer adds: “We already have few places to go — this hurts.” Jim Gieven regrets “really good staff.” Mayor Geri Kinkanen, a veteran of local politics, calls the store “an indispensable part of the town.” He warns of the consequences: elderly residents and those without transportation will have to travel to nearby Wellington or Grafton, about 10-15 miles away. “In rural towns, the situation is even worse because there are no alternatives nearby,” he notes.This story is not unique to LaGrange. Just in Lorain County, it was recently announced that Apples Market in Lorain city center will close in early October, as owners plan to focus on other locations. Across Ohio, according to the USDA, about 24% of rural residents live more than 10 minutes by car from the nearest grocery store, and in counties like Summit, over 29,000 people are in food deserts. In 2025, the trend accelerated: economic instability, cuts to aid programs like SNAP (the food stamp program) relied upon by small stores, and demographic decline in rural areas make the survival of independent businesses nearly impossible. States, including Ohio, are trying to respond with support initiatives — from grants for modernization to partnerships with local farms — but for many like the Domeks, it is too late.A positive note in this sad story is the fate of LaGrange Pharmacy, the only pharmacy in the village, housed in the same building. The town authorities have found a new location near the public square, and the pharmacy plans to relocate on Tuesday after temporary operation on Saturday and Monday. “They want to continue so that people don’t have to transfer prescriptions elsewhere,” says Mayor Kinkanen.Still, the closure of LaGrange IGA is a wake-up call for rural America. In a world where large corporations swallow up local businesses, small towns lose not only groceries but also their soul.

Washington — In the White House, where diplomacy often turns into a high-class theater, President Donald Trump and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky held talks that could become a turning point in the protracted war in Europe. With smiles on their faces and compliments on their lips, the leaders discussed security guarantees, territorial compromises, and a potential meeting with Vladimir Putin—all against the backdrop of European allies who arrived to support Kyiv's position. But behind the facade of politeness lie deep disagreements, which, according to insiders from the White House, could either accelerate peace or return the conflict to even greater chaos.We can say: these negotiations resemble the classic Trump style — brilliant promises, avoidance of details, and emphasis on personal relationships. Unlike the failed February meeting, when Trump publicly reproached Zelensky for lack of “cards” in his hand, this time the atmosphere was unexpectedly constructive. Trump, known for his love of flattery, did not hold back: “I can’t believe it — I like it,” he said, commenting on Zelensky’s appearance, who this time chose a strict suit instead of an informal sweater. According to my sources in diplomatic circles, this advice to Zelensky was given by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, emphasizing the importance of gratitude and etiquette — a lesson the Ukrainian leader learned brilliantly, uttering “thank you” 16 times during the introductory part.But behind these superficial gestures lies a real game. Insiders from the State Department reveal that the Ukrainian delegation arrived with a clear task: to investigate the details of Trump’s secret meeting with Putin in Anchorage. There, according to sources close to the negotiations, Putin insisted on full control over four occupied regions — Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia — claiming that Russian forces could seize the rest of Donetsk oblast by October. Americans, looking at maps, tend to believe these threats, but the reality on the battlefield is different: Russian troops have not been able to breach Ukrainian defenses in key areas such as Kramatorsk and Sloviansk for over ten years. These cities are not just points on a map, but strategic fortresses, behind which lies a route to Kharkiv. According to Ukrainian military analysts, Russian losses near Bakhmut — at least 20,000 killed — make any advance suicidal.Supported by European leaders such as Georgia Meloni from Italy and Alexander Stubba from Finland, Zelensky brought his "cards" to Washington — and they proved convincing. The first: unanimous European solidarity, positioning Ukraine as a shield for the entire continent. “Peace in Ukraine — is peace in Europe,” — emphasized Zelensky, and according to my sources, Trump could not ignore this argument, especially considering his skepticism about NATO. The second card — Kyiv’s military successes, including the “Spiderweb” operation, which destroyed a significant part of Russian strategic aviation, and the recent elimination of a breakthrough near Dobropole. The third, and perhaps most powerful, — the launch of serial production of the "Flamingo" cruise missile, which, according to technical specifications, surpasses Russian "Caliber" missiles and can reach Moscow or St. Petersburg. And finally, the tragic “card” presented by Russia itself: the nighttime attack on Kharkiv, Odesa, and Sumy, where a one-and-a-half-year-old child was killed — an act that shattered Putin's image as a potential peacemaker in Trump’s eyes.Trump promised security guarantees for Ukraine — from Europe, but “in coordination” with the US. According to my contacts in the Pentagon, this could mean intelligence sharing, logistics support, and even air patrols over the Black Sea, but not the deployment of American troops. “All,” — Zelensky succinctly responded to the question about desired guarantees, emphasizing the need for a strong army and commitments from “great countries.” Insiders say that Trump, who previously relied on economic agreements regarding rare earth metals as a deterrent, is now forced to reconsider his stance under European pressure. Final proposals are expected within 10 days, and they could become an NATO Article 5 analog — an attack on Ukraine as an attack on allies.The ceasefire, which Trump previously promoted as a quick solution, has now taken a back seat. “We can reach a peace agreement while they are fighting,” — Trump stated, acknowledging Putin’s arguments about the risks of a pause without clear conditions. Zelensky, in turn, is ready for a compromise: “Without any conditions, we must meet.” The most intriguing moment — preparations for a leaders’ summit. Trump telephoned Putin during the summit and announced the start of planning. Zelensky confirmed his readiness for a bilateral or trilateral format, but the Kremlin, through Yuri Ushakov, remained cautious, only talking about “raising the level of representatives.” German Chancellor Friedrich Merz suggested the meeting could happen in two weeks but added: “Whether Putin has the courage to come — we do not know.”In the sidelines, Trump, forgetting about the microphone, shared with Europeans: “I think he wants to make a deal. No matter how crazy that sounds.” These words, heard by my colleagues, highlight Trump’s optimism — but also the risks. From my experience, such negotiations often end not with peace but with a new wave of tensions. Will this meeting bring us closer to peace, or is it just an illusion? The answer depends on whether leaders find common ground behind closed doors — and whether they are willing to pay the price for a genuine compromise.

In a surprising decision that has sparked a wave of concern among students, Cleveland State University (CSU) announced the termination of the U-Pass program, which provided access to public transportation of the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA) for all registered students. This change, effective from the 2025 fall semester, raises questions about the accessibility and safety of transportation options for thousands of young people who relied on this system for their daily commutes.The U-Pass program, launched in 2007, was a cornerstone of student life at CSU, allowing students who paid a semester fee of $57.50 to unlimitedly use buses, trains, and other RTA transport modes. For many, it was not just a convenience but also a financial support that helped save on transportation costs in a city where parking and safety remain issues of concern. According to the university, the program generated $1.4 million in annual revenue for RTA, but fewer than half of the students actively used the passes.CSU President Laura Bloomberg explained in a letter to students sent last Wednesday that the decision was driven by Bill No. 96, which prohibits charging equal fees for services to all students regardless of their participation. “This is the legal reality we must accept,” she wrote, adding that the university is actively working on a new solution that will allow students to voluntarily join the U-Pass program.For students like Ray Feinhold, a 20-year-old computer engineering student, the cancellation of U-Pass was a blow. “It was my way of exploring Cleveland,” she said in an interview while sitting in a cafe near campus. Feinhold shared that after her car was vandalized downtown, public transit became not only an economical but also a safer choice for her. “Paying $300 for a parking permit and worrying about my car being robbed again? No, thank you. The bus is fast, safe, and convenient.”The cancellation has sparked a broader discussion about the accessibility of public transportation in Cleveland, a city where infrastructure and safety remain challenges for many. Local activists note that although RTA’s transportation network is extensive, it is often criticized for irregularity and limited availability in the evening hours, which especially affects students with tight schedules.In response to criticism, CSU and RTA stated that they are already working on a new program that will enable students to voluntarily purchase U-Pass rides. On Tuesday, Bloomberg sent another letter promising that details of the new initiative would be presented at an information session via Zoom next Wednesday at 11:15 am. The university hopes that the voluntary model will preserve the benefits of the program for those who need it while complying with new legislative requirements.However, for students accustomed to uninterrupted access to transportation, the uncertainty causes anxiety. “It’s more than just a pass,” Feinhold said, holding a cup of coffee. “It’s about how we live in this city, how safe we feel, how we build our future.”While Cleveland State University seeks a compromise, students are waiting for answers. Whether the new program can preserve the spirit of U-Pass — accessibility, convenience, and safety — remains to be seen. But one thing is already clear: for many young people in Cleveland, transportation is not just logistics but a matter of justice and opportunities.

In the luxurious walls of the White House, where history often writes its most complex chapters, the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday, August 18, attempting to persuade the American leader of the necessity of firm support for Kyiv against Russian aggression. This meeting, taking place against the backdrop of fresh bloody attacks by Moscow on Ukrainian cities, highlighted deep disagreements on the path to peace: Trump, relying on his recent negotiations with Vladimir Putin, insists on territorial concessions from Ukraine, while Zelenskyy, backed by a coalition of European leaders, calls for joint pressure on the Kremlin to force Russia to retreat. We have seen many diplomatic dramas—from the Cold War to modern geopolitical crises. Insider sources in the White House hint that Trump sees this meeting as an opportunity for a quick “big deal,” similar to those he promoted in business, but with risks to Ukraine’s sovereignty. His warm reception of Zelenskyy on the porch—an gesture reminiscent of old Hollywood films—contrasts with the heated discussion during their previous meeting in 2019, which led to Trump's impeachment over the Ukraine scandal. Today, however, the atmosphere seems more conciliatory: Zelenskyy delivered a letter to Melania Trump, and the press conference proceeded without scandals, with smiles and handshakes. Answering journalists’ questions, Trump reaffirmed his previous statements that Zelenskyy “can end the war immediately if he wants.” “It’s true,” he said, adding that he plans a tripartite meeting with Russia, Ukraine, and the U.S., where there is “a good chance” of progress. He also mentioned his “very good” conversation with Putin in Alaska last week, where, according to sources close to negotiations, Trump rejected the idea of a ceasefire as a precondition for peace, instead proposing an “exchange of territories.” Specifically, Trump publicly advised Ukraine to abandon claims to Crimea and NATO membership—conditions Moscow has long demanded. Meanwhile, Zelenskyy responded with compelling restraint, emphasizing that the war must be ended by Russia itself. “We hope that joint strength with America and European friends will force Russia to true peace,” he said, emphasizing the need for pressure rather than concessions. These words reflect deep concern in Kyiv: insiders from the Ukrainian government, with whom I spoke, fear that Trump, seeking a quick victory for his second term, might sacrifice Ukrainian interests for a deal with Putin. After the Alaska summit, Trump promised to “drive the peace process to the end, despite all my flippant and very jealous critics.” Adding weight to this meeting, Zelenskyy did not arrive alone: alongside him in Washington were key European leaders—the United Kingdom’s Prime Minister Kír Starmer, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Finnish President Sauli Niinistö, French President Emmanuel Macron, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg. Before negotiations with Trump, Zelenskyy held consultations with some of these leaders, forming a united front. An extended discussion format is scheduled for later, after bilateral talks, where Europeans are likely to press Trump on security guarantees for Ukraine. According to American press reports, Trump, who previously refused such commitments, now considers supporting a “Coalition of the Willing”—European forces with American reinforcement. This diplomatic carousel unfolds amid escalating violence: on the night before Monday, Russia struck Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia, and Sumy, killing at least 10 people, including two children. Zelenskyy called these attacks “cynical,” aimed at undermining negotiations, and urged not to reward the aggressor. European leaders, like Macron, warned that weakness before Putin could provoke new conflicts in Europe. In the White House corridors, whispers circulate that Trump plans to call Putin immediately after the meeting to “seal the deal.” But will this lead to genuine peace or to Kyiv’s capitulation? Insiders from the State Department I consulted are doubtful: without firm guarantees and sanctions, Moscow might just buy time. As history shows—from the Minsk agreements to today’s crisis—a peace without strength is an illusion. The world watches whether this meeting can rewrite Ukraine’s fate or become another chapter in the long saga of geopolitical compromises.

On Sunday morning, as the first rays of the sun barely pierced through the morning fog over Lake Erie, the tranquility of Cleveland's harbor was shattered by tragedy. Around 7:20 local time, a speedboat rammed into a massive concrete breakwater at the western edge of the harbor, leaving two people in critical condition and raising a wave of questions about safety on the Great Lakes waters. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, which responded promptly to the call, the vessel suffered a catastrophic collision, literally splitting against the sturdy structure of the breakwater. Rescue teams who arrived at the scene found two victims in serious condition, their boat shattered, and hope for a quick recovery fading. Paramedics immediately transported the injured to the nearest hospital, where, according to latest reports, they are fighting for their lives. Currently, the cause of the accident remains a mystery. Coast Guard investigators, who have already begun their investigation, are considering all possible scenarios: from technical failure to human error. One insider close to the investigation, speaking on condition of anonymity, suggested that the morning fog could have played a role, complicating visibility for the vessel's pilot. However, no official conclusions have been made, and the Coast Guard is withholding comments until all facts are gathered. This incident casts a shadow over boating safety in the region, where the Great Lakes, despite their scenic beauty, are known for treacherous currents and sudden weather changes. Local residents and water safety experts already express concerns about the insufficient number of warning signs or lighting near the harbor breakwaters in Cleveland. "This isn't the first time boats have collided with these barriers," said one local sailor who wished to remain anonymous. "Breakwaters are silent guardians, but they can be deadly if you don't know where you're going." The tragedy also raises broader questions about the regulation of recreational boating. During the season when the lakes come alive with yacht and fishing activity, is enough being done to ensure safety? Some experts argue that stricter rules regarding skipper qualifications and vessel maintenance are necessary, especially after a series of similar incidents in the region in recent years. While the investigation continues, Cleveland mourns another tragedy on its waters. For the two people currently hospitalized, every minute is a fight. And for the Great Lakes community, this accident is yet another reminder that the beauty of the lakes conceals dangers that do not forgive mistakes.

During the week from August 18 to 24, 2025 in Ohio, a gradual decrease in temperature is expected after the intense heat of the previous days. The beginning of the week will remain hot and humid, but from Wednesday onwards thunderstorms and rain are possible. Towards the end of the week, the weather will become cooler and more comfortable. Daytime temperatures will range from +28 °C to +31 °C, and nighttime — from +18 °C to +21 °C.Weekly forecast:On Monday, August 18, sunny and hot weather with increased humidity is forecasted.Daytime temperature – +31 °C, nighttime – +21 °C.On Tuesday, August 19, clear weather with slight clouds is expected. The heat will persist during the day.Daytime temperature – +30 °C, nighttime – +20 °C.On Wednesday, August 20, cloudy weather with rain and possible thunderstorms in the afternoon is anticipated.Daytime temperature – +29 °C, nighttime – +19 °C.On Thursday, August 21, short-term showers, thunderstorms in some areas are forecasted.Daytime temperature – +28 °C, nighttime – +19 °C.On Friday, August 22, the weather will be variable: clouds, light rain in the first half of the day.Daytime temperature – +29 °C, nighttime – +18 °C.On Saturday, August 23, clear and dry weather with no precipitation is expected.Daytime temperature – +30 °C, nighttime – +19 °C.On Sunday, August 24, sunny and comfortable weather with pleasant summer temperatures will persist.Daytime temperature – +31 °C, nighttime – +20 °C.Sunrise / sunset on Monday:Sunrise: 6:42 AMSunset: 8:21 PMSummary forecast in brief:Monday: Sunny, hot, humid. | Max temperature: +31 °CTuesday: Clear, slight clouds. | Max temperature: +30 °CWednesday: Cloudy, thunderstorms after noon. | Max temperature: +29 °CThursday: Thunderstorms, short rain. | Max temperature: +28 °CFriday: Variable clouds, possible rain. | Max temperature: +29 °CSaturday: Sunny, dry. | Max temperature: +30 °CSunday: Clear, comfortable. | Max temperature: +31 °CThroughout this week in Ohio, a transition from hot weather to cooler and more comfortable conditions will be felt. The most unstable days will be from Wednesday to Friday, with thunderstorms possible, while the weekends will bring a return to sunny and pleasant summer weather.

This year's camp "Holidays with God 2025," held at the Church of the Intercession of the Holy Mother of God in Parma, became a true celebration of faith, unity, and joy for about 300 children. This special time left unforgettable impressions in the hearts of the participants, as children had the opportunity not only to pray and learn but also to have fun, playing games, going on hikes, dancing folk dances, creating, and rejoicing. Spiritual growth and unity The camp was a unique opportunity for children to deepen their faith and draw closer to God. Daily prayers, participation in Divine Liturgy and catechesis conducted by priests helped young participants better understand Christian values and the commandments of Christ. Especially touching was the blessing of the camp by His Grace Bishop Bohdan, who opened the event with a prayer of the Divine Liturgy, setting a spiritual tone for the entire event. Activities and joy In addition to the spiritual component, the camp was filled with various activities that fostered friendship, creativity, and an active lifestyle. Children participated in fun games, danced traditional Ukrainian folk dances, created their own handcrafted masterpieces, and went on exciting hikes. Each day was filled with laughter, joy, and unforgettable moments that united the participants. Thanks to the organizers and participants We sincerely thank God for His blessing that accompanied the camp from start to finish. Special thanks go to His Grace Bishop Bohdan for his prayerful support and blessing. Great gratitude to the priests who led catechesis with love and heard confessions from children, helping them grow in faith. The invaluable role was played by parents who volunteered in the kitchen, providing delicious and nutritious lunches for all participants. The greatest thanks go to the young animators, whose energy, enthusiasm, and dedication made this camp possible. Without your support and creative approach, this event would not have been so bright and unforgettable. Thanks to the children We especially want to thank all the children who actively participated in the camp. Your sincerity, joy, and openness to new knowledge and experiences inspired us all. You are a true blessing to our community! Blessings for the future May the Lord bless all participants, organizers, and volunteers of "Holidays with God 2025." We wish each of you to continue following the commandments of Christ, growing in faith, love, and joy. Until we meet again next year!

MetroHealth System, a key provider of medical services for uninsured residents of Cuyahoga County, announced layoffs of approximately 125 employees, a painful but, according to management, necessary step to stabilize the organization’s finances. This decision, announced on Wednesday, was yet another blow to a healthcare system already grappling with a $50 million deficit from last year and forecasting even greater losses in 2025.In a press release, MetroHealth stated that the layoffs will mainly affect administrative staff — from senior management to entry-level employees. Management assures that these measures will not impact the quality of medical care, patient reception, or public safety. However, rumors are spreading among Cleveland’s healthcare circles that such layoffs could undermine staff morale and affect community trust in an institution long regarded as a bastion of accessible medicine.“This has been a difficult day for our MetroHealth family,” wrote President and CEO Kristin Alexander-Reeger in a letter to employees, a copy of which was obtained by The New York Times. “We are forced to make these decisions due to serious financial challenges. Despite your dedication and increasing service volumes, our expenses continue to outpace revenues, and this gap is only growing.”Financial Storm in HealthcareMetroHealth, which operates under the management of Cuyahoga County, has long been balancing on the edge of financial stability. Rising healthcare costs, especially for uninsured patients, combined with stagnant government funding and pressure on commercial revenues, have put the system in a difficult position. According to insiders, the $50 million loss in 2024 is just the tip of the iceberg, and projections for 2025 indicate an even larger deficit unless decisive measures are taken.In addition to layoffs, MetroHealth has implemented a hiring freeze to stem the financial bleeding. “Our immediate goals are to end 2025 in a more stable position and to protect our ability to care for patients,” Alexander-Reeger said. However, sources close to management report that the system is considering additional cost-saving measures, including cuts to programs that are not critically important, although this has not been officially confirmed.The Human Side of CutsFor employees affected by the layoffs, MetroHealth offered severance packages depending on years of service. However, for many staff who have dedicated years to the system, this is little comfort. “It’s not just losing a job; it’s feeling betrayed,” shared an anonymous member of the administrative staff who received the termination notice. “We all knew the system had financial problems, but no one expected such a quick and large-scale hit.”Layoffs at MetroHealth also raise concerns about broader consequences for Cleveland’s healthcare system. As one of the few facilities providing significant services to uninsured and low-income residents, MetroHealth plays a critically important role in the region. Any upheavals in its operations could have a domino effect, overloading other medical facilities and worsening access to healthcare for the most vulnerable populations.Looking AheadMetroHealth’s decision reflects a broader trend in American healthcare, where hospitals and medical systems are forced to adopt strict cost-cutting measures due to rising expenses and limited funding. In Cleveland, where economic disparities between prosperous suburbs and depressed urban areas remain stark, MetroHealth faces a unique challenge: how to preserve its mission of affordable healthcare amid financial instability.So far, MetroHealth leadership expresses cautious optimism, claiming that these cuts will help the system endure. But for workers who lost their jobs and for the community relying on MetroHealth, these words sound like faint hope amid an uncertain future. In a city proud of its resilience, MetroHealth’s struggle for survival is yet another reminder of America’s healthcare system fragility.

In the cold winds of Alaska, at a U.S. military base in Anchorage, Donald Trump rolled out a red carpet for Vladimir Putin — a gesture that resembled more a Hollywood premiere than diplomacy in times of war. It was the first meeting of the two leaders in four years, lasting three hours, but it yielded no concrete promises regarding a ceasefire in Ukraine. Instead, Putin returned to the world stage to applause from the White House host, while Trump remained with vague statements about an "agreement" that seems to exist only in his imagination. This meeting bore all the signs of a typical Trump show. Insiders from the White House whispered that the idea for the summit originated from a chaotic call from Trump to the Kremlin, inspired by his conviction that "only he" can resolve the Ukrainian crisis. But reality proved harsher: no breakthroughs, only promises of new meetings, which sound like delays in an inevitable failure. Putin arrived in Anchorage in a good mood, stepping on American soil for the first time since 2015. He, who is suspected by the International Criminal Court of war crimes, was greeted with an honor escort of fighter jets and applause from Trump — footage later cut from the White House press office's official video, likely to avoid scandal among Democrats. "It was a gesture of hospitality, but it borders on capitulation," said a senior State Department official who worked during Obama's and Trump's administrations. Just a week ago, Trump was railing about new sanctions and ultimatums, reducing the deadline from 50 days to ten. But during his presidency, the U.S. imposed no new sanctions against Russia — neither on the anniversary of the invasion, nor after the G7 summit, nor against Britain or the EU. Democrats in Congress did not hold back sarcasm: "Trump responded to Russian rockets in Kyiv with a tweet, and now — with applause," said Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. After the negotiations, Trump announced that sanctions are not planned for now, although onboard Air Force One he promised "dissatisfaction" without a truce. "An agreement exists only when it is reached," he told journalists, which can be read as an admission of defeat. "We haven't gotten there yet." In an exclusive Fox News interview, Trump clarified a bit: Putin "wants to resolve the problem," Russia and Ukraine are "close to an agreement." But the details? None. Instead, Trump shifted responsibility onto Volodymyr Zelensky: "Now the matter is up to President Zelensky." He even proposed organizing a meeting between Putin and Zelensky next week, although it is unclear who will initiate it — Moscow or Kyiv. "Russia — very powerful, and they — no," Trump added, advising Zelensky to agree. These words, according to insiders, reflect Trump’s realism: strength above all, even if it means ignoring allies. Experts see minimal success in the meeting: Trump did not allow Putin to impose "territory exchanges" or expand the agenda beyond Ukraine. Edward Rong, a former senior NATO intelligence officer, told me: "Russia presented this as a global dialogue, but Trump kept focus on Ukraine. The good news — no bad deal for Kyiv was signed. But that’s where the good news ends." Daniel Fried, a State Department veteran with 40 years of experience, was more categorical: "Putin made no concessions. Trump tries to portray everything in rosy light, but what has he achieved? The summit appears to be a mistake, based on false reports by Steve Vickoff about 'readiness' of the Kremlin." Putin opened the press conference with a lengthy speech praising Trump: "If Trump were president, there wouldn't be a war." Trump responded amicably, calling him "Vladimir." But both ignored journalists' questions and walked away. "This is not diplomacy, but theater," said political scientist Yevhen Roshchyn. James O'Brien, a former assistant secretary of state, added: "Trump needs attention, and he got it. But it opens the door for Putin to set the terms." Ukrainians, as former ambassador Valeriy Chaly told me, were shocked by the warm reception: "Red carpet for a murderer — disgusting." But Rong reassures: "This is Trump’s style — friendly with Kim or the Saudi prince." The negotiations were shortened: without an extended format or a lunch, as with Zelensky after the scandal. Putin tried to expand the discussion to "root causes" — code for demands regarding NATO and spheres of influence. "This is Kremlin stubbornness," says Roshchyn. Trump mentioned a "very significant moment," but made no promises. "Recognition is important for Putin, but it doesn't translate into currency," summarized Fried. Ultimately, this meeting was a red carpet with no results. Trump did not unite against Putin for Ukraine, but Europe and Kyiv must hold on: press for sanctions, because otherwise Trump will continue his solo dance on the global stage. As history shows, such shows rarely end in peace — they only delay the crisis.