US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin have started their high-stakes summit in Alaska to discuss the course of the Ukraine war.

There are mixed opinions about the outcome in Ukraine and Western Europe, which are more directly impacted by Russia's February 2022 invasion than the US. But, the stakes have only shot up as the previously announced one-to-one meeting has suddenly turned into a three-to-three meeting between the US and Russia.

Two of the key aides of both the presidents have now joined the meeting.

White House officials have also privately talked about offering incentives to Russia to wind down its Ukraine war. So-called US gifts for Russia could include discussions about new business deals or a possible strategic arms deal between the two countries, CNN reported quoting White House officials.

Less than two hours before landing in Anchorage, on his presidential plane, Trump told reporters that he “would not be happy” if the talks did not end in a ceasefire agreement.

President Trump has already ruled out discussing Ukrainian teritorry handover to achieve lasting peace. The matter will be decided by Ukraine he has said in a bid allay European fears that the discussions could give Russia significant advantages in the war.

The summit is scheduled to end around 07:45am Saturday in Dhaka time. Here is the live coverage where we will bring you all the latest updates about the event.