Talks to end the war in Ukraine returned to focus this week as United States President Donald Trump met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, followed by a separate meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Oil prices eased on Tuesday as markets weighed the possibility that progress in negotiations could lead to reduced sanctions on Russian crude, boosting global supply. For shipping, any change in sanctions policy or trade flows would have direct implications for tanker demand and regional route dynamics.

Further meetings scheduled
Looking ahead, potential next steps include a proposed bilateral meeting between Zelensky and Putin, followed by a trilateral session with Trump, which could further shape the outlook for energy markets and shipping.