In Anchorage, Alaska, the world watched closely as two of the globe’s most powerful leaders met for the first time in six years.
President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin greeted each other on the tarmac of Elmendorf Air Force Base in a moment loaded with anticipation and international significance.
The meeting, aimed at finding a path to end the war in Ukraine, captured the attention of journalists and citizens worldwide.
The First Words Between Trump and Putin
According to a lip reader, the encounter began with Trump expressing his impatience after waiting on the red carpet.
His first whispered word to Putin was simply: “Finally.”
As they shook hands, he continued warmly: “You made it, fantastic to see you and appreciated.”
Both leaders appeared cordial, promising mutual support in their brief exchange.
Putin reportedly said, “Thank you, and you. I am here to help you,” to which Trump responded jovially, “I’ll help you.”
Putin then hinted he could “bring it to a rest” if requested, adding, “All they need is to ask.”
Trump replied optimistically, “I hope it does,” before ushering the pair toward their waiting vehicle, emphasizing the importance of moving forward: “Come on, let’s get straight into the vehicle. We need to move forward, both giving it attention.
I know this is serious, it’s quite long. What a journey it is.”
A Mysterious Exchange on the Move
During the ride, Trump asked Putin if he wanted the “scoop,” to which the Russian leader replied, “Give me the scoop.”
Trump’s cryptic response, “It’s cargo fuel,” left observers uncertain about the exact topic of discussion.
Once at the podium, Trump encouraged Putin to shake hands for appearances.
Putin complied, nodding politely and saying, “Thank you,” while avoiding any media questions about Ukraine or civilian casualties.
Changing Plans for the Summit
Despite the high-profile arrival, the planned one-on-one summit between Trump and Putin was canceled at the last minute.
Instead, both leaders met with top aides: Secretary of State Marco Rubio and US Ambassador Steve Witkoff joined Trump in formal discussions with Putin.
On his way to Anchorage, Trump expressed his main goal: “stop the killing,” though he admitted uncertainty over how quickly a ceasefire could be achieved.
“I don’t know if it’s going to be today,” he told reporters aboard Air Force One. “But I’m not going to be happy if it’s not today.
Everyone said it can’t be today—but I want the killing to stop.”
Tough Words and Diplomatic Pressure
In the days leading up to the meeting, Trump had warned Putin of “very severe consequences” if Russia refused to halt the war in Ukraine.
On Friday, he reiterated a firm stance, signaling he had yet to be convinced he could persuade Putin to stop civilian casualties.
European leaders noted that Trump prioritized an immediate ceasefire at the start of negotiations, a move likely to strain Moscow as it continues to gain territory.
Trump also warned that failure to reach progress could mean no second meeting, saying, “If I don’t get the answers I need today, then we’re not going to have a second meeting.”
He added that Russia would face “consequences,” though he did not specify whether that meant sanctions or tariffs, only that they would be “very severe.”
Still, Trump expressed hope for a “quick second meeting” involving Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and himself, should all parties wish to convene again.
