The much-hyped summit between US President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in Alaska has ended much as many had expected: with lofty statements, vague promises, and no ceasefire in Ukraine. For all the anticipation of a dramatic breakthrough, what unfolded was a political spectacle that left all sides exactly where they began.

Mr. Trump, who prides himself on his ability to cut deals, walked away without one. His claim of “great pro gress” was strikingly hollow, unsupported by any concrete steps or timelines. Even his earlier assurance that there was only a “25 per cent chance of failure” now rings as self-inflicted damage to his image. The optics of standing silently while Mr Putin dominated the opening remarks were unusual for an American President, and symbolised the uneven dynamics of the encounter. Mr Putin, on the other hand, achieved what he wanted most: global visibility and a platform to project himself as an equal to the US President. By securing centre stage without yielding on any substantive issue,........

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