**Trump’s Leadership on the Line as Critical Summit Approaches**

In an unprecedented moment that could reshape global geopolitics, President Donald Trump prepares for a high-stakes summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin today, where the fate of peace negotiations hangs in the balance. As tensions escalate, Trump’s leadership is under intense scrutiny, with experts like Dan Hoffman emphasizing that the outcome of this meeting could define his legacy.

With a mere 25% chance of success, Trump aims to broker a ceasefire that includes Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, but the stakes are monumental. “I’ll know within the first two to five minutes if this meeting will be fruitful,” Trump stated, underscoring the urgency of the moment. The world watches as he attempts to leverage his past dealings with Putin, claiming he’s the toughest leader Russia has faced.

As the summit unfolds, the specter of war looms large. Putin, who has spilled blood and treasure in Ukraine, appears unwilling to yield ground, seeking instead to manipulate the conversation around territorial control. Hoffman warns that Putin’s strategy may involve dangling economic incentives while pursuing his goal of a puppet regime in Kyiv.

The summit, set for 3:30 PM Eastern Time, will feature a joint press conference that could reveal the intentions of both leaders. With Russia controlling roughly 20% of Ukraine, the implications of this meeting are staggering. The world holds its breath as Trump faces the challenge of turning the tide in a bloody conflict that has cost countless lives.

As the clock ticks down to the summit, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Will Trump emerge as a peacemaker, or will this meeting expose the fragility of his leadership? The answers are just hours away.