Trump and Putin locked in face to face talks after US leader's show of force
thesun.ie -- Friday, August 15, 2025, 6:29:47 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: U.S.–Russia Relations, Foreign Policy & International Relations, U.S. Elections & Voting Rights
Mr Trump dodged questions on how he could possibly trust Mr Putin
DONALD Trump flew a B2 stealth bomber over Vladimir Putin's head as they greeted each other in Alaska for showdown talks.
The pair were last night locked in face to face talks following the astonishing show of force by the US President.
Meeting his Russian counterpart on tarmac at a military base in Anchorage last night, the Americans lined up four £300million F22 fighter jets for an historic handshake photo op.
They then had a moment alone in Mr Trump's presidential limo - nicknamed The Beast - ahead of closed-door talks about ending the war in Ukraine.
It was the first time in almost a decade that President Putin had set foot on US soil, despite being an internationally-wanted war criminal for his butchery in the bloody three-and-a-half year conflict.
The Russian leader was later spotted grinning and smiling as the pair posed for the world's media.
Heckled by journalists over whether he was "ready to stop killing civilians", the Kremlin tyrant smirked and pointed to the skies.
Mr Trump also dodged questions on how he could possibly trust Mr Putin.
However he ducked a planned one-on-one meeting with the Russian leader, instead opting to meet with officials including his Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
The pair were expected to host a joint press conference in the small hours, after the Kremlin side expressed their wishes for talks to last for up to six hours.
Ahead of the historic meet, both sides were flexing their muscles.
The Russian jet that flew their delegation to America served Chicken Kievs - the famous garlicky dish named after the Ukrainian capital.
Meanwhile the Americans served waffles on Air Force One, as the President warned travelling journalists that he would walk out of the talks if the pair did not make ground on securing a ceasefire.
And Mr Putin was forced to disembark in front of some of the most sophisticated US military kit, and treated to a humiliating fly past of the iconic US bomber.
Meanwhile Russia's top diplomat Sergei Lavrov swaggered into Alaska wearing a sweater emblazoned with "USSR" - the initials of the Soviet empire that Putin is desperate to rebuild.
Lavrov's unusual wardrobe was seen as a shameless signal of Russia's imperial goals.
The veteran Foreign Secretary was dressed unusually casually - in jeans and gilet - as he swooped into Anchorage for talks between President Putin and Trump.
Franak Viačorka, a Putin critic from Belarus, said the jumper was "a clear nod to the Putin regime's imperial ambitions".
He said: "They're stuck in the past and want to pull Ukraine and Belarus back with them - forgetting we are free nations that will never return to their 'brotherhood'."
The collapse of the USSR led to 15 nations including Ukraine gaining their independence.
But Putin has called that collapse the greatest tragedy of the 20th Century.
And he has made no secret of his goal to restore Russia's greatness by recapturing lands he claims as his.
Anton Gerashchenko, an ex-aide to Ukraine's interior ministry, said: "The Russian delegation are trying to present the Alaska meeting as a remake of the summits of the superpowers."
He said Lavrov's choice of jumper was "a public statement about Russia's imperial ambitions, demonstrating the desire to return to the past and revive the USSR".
Donald Trump said a land swap would "be discussed" at Friday's meeting.
But he insisted: "I've got to let Ukraine make that decision."
Speaking on Air Force One has he flew from Washington DC to Alaska, he said: "I'm not here to negotiate for Ukraine, I'm here to get him at the table."
Trump was joined on Air Force one by CIA director John Ratcliffe, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and his peace envoy Steve Witkoff who met Putin in Moscow last week.
However former General Keith Kellogg, Trump's special envoy for Ukraine, did not appear to be onboard.
Trump said he was confident something good would come of the historic meeting.
The two men have held many phone calls - but this is the first face to face showdown since 2019 when they met at a G20 summit.
Trump claimed Russia wanted " a piece" of America's wealth and he welcomed the fact that Moscow's delegation included businessmen.
He said: "I notice he's bringing a lot of business people from Russia, and that's good, I like that, because they want to do business, but we're not doing business until we get the war settled."
Putin's delegation included economic envoy Kirill Dmitriev, Finance Minister Anton Siluanov, Defence Minister Andrei Belousov and Putin's top foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov.
The talks were due include a working breakfast and "five-on-five" negotiations.
Delegates from both sides were set to be housed on University of Alaska's Anchorage campus as most of the city's hotels were booked out as it is peak tourism season in Anchorage.
However Russian journalists complained that they were forced to sleep on camp cots in a sports arena.
Videos showed reporters who were travelling with the "Kremlin pool" were military style cots in the Alaska Airlines Center, a sports arena.
On the battlefield
Their complaints came as both sides continued to slug it out on the battlefield.
Kyiv said Russia had launched almost 100 missiles and drones overnight, of which 63 drones were shot down.
At the same Ukraine strike a gunpowder factory, an oil refinery and a cargo ship on the Caspian Sea bringing deadly drone parts from Russia.
At least five people died at the gunpowder plant, 20 were injured and more than 100 people had to be evacuated from the gunpowder factory in Ryazan.
Ukraine's Special Forces claimed they hit the Syzran oil refinery in Russia's Samara Oblast, one of the largest in the Rosneft system.
Drones partially sank the Port Olya 4 cargo ship in the town of Olya in Russia's Astrakhan province.
Pictures showed the stricken vessel partially submerged.
Ukraine also targeted a headquarters of Russia's 132 Motor Rifle Brigade whose troops were made a shock advance last week which threatened to cut off the Donbas towns of Dobropillia and Kostiantynivka.
Ukraine insisted the 12km advance was not a "breakthrough" as originally claimed.
They said small groups of Russian troops had "infiltrated" across the frontline and were beaten back when as ran out of food, water and ammunition and did not have any reinforcements.
Sign Our PetitionThe recent face-to-face meeting between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, amid a backdrop of military grandeur and geopolitical tension, serves as a stark reminder of the intricate dance that nations engage in on the world stage. The historical context of U.S.-Russia relations is inextricably linked to the broader narrative of imperialism, the fight for self-determination, and the ongoing struggles against oppressive regimes. This meeting not only highlights the complexities of international diplomacy but also underscores the critical importance of solidarity with those who continue to resist authoritarianism in the face of overwhelming odds.
The optics of the meeting were particularly striking. Trump’s demonstration of military might—sending a B2 stealth bomber flying overhead and parading advanced F22 fighter jets—was not merely a spectacle but a calculated performance designed to assert U.S. dominance. Such displays of power are deeply rooted in a historical pattern where military strength is often conflated with diplomatic effectiveness. The legacy of the Cold War still looms large, as both nations grapple with the remnants of a bipolar world order. In this context, it is essential to remember that military displays often mask deeper issues at play, such as human rights violations, the suppression of dissent, and the manipulation of public sentiment in both countries.
Moreover, the choice to host these talks in Alaska—a U.S. state that shares geographical proximity to Russia—was laden with symbolism. It evoked the historical purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867, a transaction that was both a strategic move and a demonstration of American expansionism. Today, that same land represents the tension between a nation seeking to assert its influence and a neighboring power eager to reclaim its lost stature. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine, characterized as a "butchery" by the article, is a direct consequence of these imperial ambitions. The struggle for Ukraine’s sovereignty is emblematic of broader struggles for self-determination that echo throughout history, reminding us that the quest for independence is often met with violent resistance from those with imperial aspirations.
The meeting's backdrop also highlighted an unsettling camaraderie between Trump and Putin, one that raises critical questions about the trustworthiness of international leaders who have exhibited a pattern of disregard for human rights. Trump’s evasion of questions about trusting Putin speaks volumes about the moral ambiguity that defines their relationship. While Trump may portray himself as a strong leader willing to engage with adversaries, the reality is that such engagements often come at the cost of sidelining the voices of those who suffer under authoritarian rule. This is particularly apparent in the context of Ukraine, where civilians continue to bear the brunt of a conflict fueled by imperial ambitions and geopolitical maneuvering.
Lastly, the peculiar wardrobe choices of Russia’s top diplomat, Sergei Lavrov, wearing a "USSR" sweater, serve as a provocative reminder of the past that Putin’s regime seeks to resurrect. This sartorial choice was not just a fashion statement but a political statement, signaling a desire to reclaim the glory of the Soviet era and the geopolitical influence that came with it. Such gestures resonate deeply with those who have fought for freedom from Soviet domination, such as in the Baltic states and Eastern Europe. The fight against imperialism—whether it be in the form of Russian aggression or any other authoritarian regime—remains a global struggle.
In conclusion, the Trump-Putin meeting in Alaska exemplifies the complicated interplay of power, history, and resistance that defines our current geopolitical landscape. As we witness the machinations of leaders who often prioritize their interests over the people they govern, it is imperative for those committed to social justice and human rights to remain vigilant. The struggles of nations seeking to assert their independence and the lives of individuals affected by war must remain at the forefront of our political discourse. Engaging in informed conversations about these issues not only empowers us but also holds those in power accountable for their actions on the world stage.
The recent face-to-face meeting between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in Alaska has ignited a firestorm of debate regarding the implications of U.S.-Russia relations, particularly in the context of the ongoing war in Ukraine. This encounter, underscored by a show of military might with the presence of B2 stealth bombers and F22 fighter jets, raises several critical questions about the nature of diplomacy, the ethics of leadership, and the ongoing struggle for democracy. In light of Russia's aggressive actions, including its brutal invasion of Ukraine and its long history of undermining democratic institutions, it is essential for Americans to critically engage with the narratives surrounding this meeting and to advocate for policies that uphold human rights and international law.
Historically, the relationship between the U.S. and Russia has been fraught with tension, particularly since the end of the Cold War. Putin’s government has often sought to reclaim the geopolitical influence lost during the collapse of the Soviet Union. His actions in Ukraine, which many view as an imperialistic resurgence, are not only a violation of Ukrainian sovereignty but also a direct challenge to the post-World War II international order. The significance of the location—Alaska—cannot be understated; it symbolizes a U.S. assertion of power in a region that Russia views as strategically important. By meeting in such a militarized setting, Trump sends a dual message of strength while simultaneously inviting questions about his commitment to democratic values. This juxtaposition is a crucial talking point for advocates of human rights and international law; it highlights the dangers of legitimizing authoritarian leaders through high-profile diplomatic engagements.
Moreover, the optics of the meeting, with Trump dodging critical questions regarding the trustworthiness of Putin, further complicate the narrative. This avoidance speaks to a broader issue of accountability and transparency in leadership. It raises the question of how U.S. leaders can engage with figures like Putin without appearing to condone their actions. Americans must engage their representatives to demand a foreign policy that prioritizes human rights and condemns war crimes. Moreover, it is essential to educate the public on the historical context of U.S.-Russia relations, emphasizing the need for a diplomatic approach grounded in respect for sovereignty and international norms.
In the wake of this meeting, Americans can take several actionable steps to push for a more ethical foreign policy. First, grassroots organizing around the issues of human rights and democracy can amplify the voices of those suffering under authoritarian regimes. This includes supporting organizations that advocate for Ukraine and other nations under threat from Russian aggression. Furthermore, individuals can lobby their congressional representatives to adopt a firm stance against Putin’s regime and to prioritize sanctions against those responsible for human rights abuses. By actively participating in the democratic process, citizens can ensure that their leaders are held accountable for their actions on the global stage.
Finally, it is crucial for Americans to recognize the importance of fostering a critical media landscape that challenges the narratives presented by powerful leaders. Engaging with diverse sources of information and supporting independent journalism can help dismantle the simplistic portrayals of complex international issues. By fostering informed discussions and advocating for policies that promote peace and justice, Americans can counter misinformation and push back against the normalization of authoritarianism in global politics.
In conclusion, the meeting between Trump and Putin in Alaska serves as a stark reminder of the complexities inherent in U.S.-Russia relations and the broader geopolitical landscape. As citizens, we have a responsibility to engage critically with these developments, advocate for ethical foreign policies, and hold our leaders accountable to the values we espouse. The stakes have never been higher, and it is imperative that we act with urgency and conviction to protect democratic principles both at home and abroad.
In light of the recent developments surrounding the meeting between Trump and Putin, it's essential to consider how individuals can engage with these geopolitical issues and advocate for peace and diplomacy. Here's a detailed list of actions that can be taken, along with examples of petitions, contact information for relevant officials, and suggestions on how to communicate effectively.
### What Can We Personally Do About This?
1. **Educate Yourself and Others**: - Stay informed about international affairs, particularly regarding Russia, Ukraine, and U.S. foreign policy. Share this knowledge through discussions, social media, and community events.
2. **Support Peace Initiatives**: - Look for local and national organizations that promote peace and conflict resolution. Engage with their campaigns and initiatives. 3. **Sign and Share Petitions**: - Petitions can be powerful tools for raising awareness and driving change. Find those that focus on peace in Ukraine, arms reduction, or accountability for war crimes.
4. **Contact Elected Officials**: - Reach out to your representatives to express your concerns about U.S. foreign policy, military spending, and the need for a diplomatic approach to international conflicts.
5. **Participate in Local Activism**: - Join or support local groups that advocate for peace, human rights, and justice. Attend rallies, town hall meetings, or community discussions related to these topics.
### Exact Actions and Real-World Examples
1. **Sign Petitions**: - **Petition for Peace in Ukraine**: Look for online platforms like Change.org or MoveOn.org where you can find petitions advocating for a ceasefire in Ukraine and support for Ukrainian sovereignty. A recent example is a petition aimed at preventing military escalation in Eastern Europe. - **Example Petition**: “Demand Peace for Ukraine” on Change.org.
2. **Contact Elected Officials**: - Write to your representatives in Congress expressing your concerns about the meeting between Trump and Putin and the implications for global peace. - Example Contact Information: - **Senator Bernie Sanders** Email: senator_sanders@sanders.senate.gov Mailing Address: 1 Church St, Ste 201, Burlington, VT 05401 - **Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez** Email: aoc@mail.house.gov Mailing Address: 1441 D. N. Y. Ave NW, Washington, D.C. 20515
3. **What to Say**: - When writing to your officials, express your concerns clearly and respectfully. You might say something like: - "I urge you to advocate for a diplomatic approach to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, rather than military escalation. It is crucial for the U.S. to support peace initiatives and hold accountable those responsible for violations of international law."
4. **Get Involved with Local Organizations**: - **Amnesty International**: Join local chapters that focus on human rights and international peace efforts. Participate in campaigns and advocacy work. - **Peace Action Network**: Look for local chapters and attend meetings to discuss strategies and actions for promoting peace.
5. **Social Media Advocacy**: - Use platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to raise awareness about the situation. Share information about petitions, events, and educational resources related to U.S.-Russia relations and the war in Ukraine. - Example Post: "The recent meeting between Trump and Putin raises significant concerns about U.S. foreign policy. Let's push for peace and diplomacy! Sign this petition [insert link] and contact your representatives."
### Conclusion
By taking these actions, individuals can contribute to a broader movement advocating for peace and diplomacy in international relations. Engaging with representatives, supporting peace initiatives, and raising awareness within communities can create a ripple effect that encourages a more thoughtful and humane approach to global conflicts.