There were also fears that Friday's meeting could result in the US and Russia imposing a peace deal on Ukraine against its will. Convincing Mr Trump to speak with Mr Zelensky in today's video-conference was seen as an important breakthrough, but Ukraine, the UK and other European nations remain frozen out of the key talks.

Donald Trump suggested that if the meeting with Vladimir Putin in Alaska goes well, a second meeting will follow quickly. This time, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy would also be included. DW has more.