Markets on Edge as Ukraine and Trump Talks Dominate

Global markets opened the week with palpable tension as traders scrutinize high-stakes discussions between Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky, European leaders, and U.S. President Donald Trump. The geopolitical uncertainty follows Trump's Alaska summit with Vladimir Putin, where territorial concessions for Ukraine were proposed. Investors brace for prolonged conflict rather than swift resolution, with U.S. stock futures reflecting the unease—Dow and S&P 500 flatlined while Nasdaq dipped. European indices mirrored the trend, as the Stoxx 600 slid into negative territory.

Meanwhile, the Federal Reserve looms large over financial markets. Chair Jerome Powell's upcoming Jackson Hole speech—potentially his last in the role—could define the trajectory of U.S. rate policy. With inflation data dampening hopes for aggressive cuts, the release of July's FOMC minutes midweek may offer critical guidance. Geopolitical shocks and monetary policy remain twin forces shaping risk appetite across asset classes.