As the August 15 Trump–Putin summit in Alaska approaches, the war in Ukraine takes a dangerous turn. Russian forces have made major gains in the Donetsk region, threatening the last two urban centers under Ukrainian control. Civilians are evacuating as deadly attacks strike Bilozerske and Shakhove, while fierce battles rage near Pokrovsk and Dobropillia. President Zelenskyy warns Russia wants Ukraine to abandon the entire Donetsk region as part of a ceasefire deal.