Soldiers Kneel for Putin in Alaska! Newsom Says Trump Hit Rock Bottom - Inquisitr News
inquisitr.com -- Sunday, August 17, 2025, 12:27:31 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: U.S.–Russia Relations, Foreign Policy & International Relations, State Politics & Governors
(L) U.S. soldiers kneel to roll out and clean the red carpet for Putin's arrival at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Alaska; (R) Trump shakes Putin's hand | Images via X.com
When images of American soldiers kneeling to roll out and polish a red carpet for Russian President Vladimir Putin's arrival in Alaska appeared on Friday, California Governor Gavin Newsom's press office didn't hold back.
The Associated Press published the photos, which showed uniformed staff squatting on their knees as Donald Trump got ready to greet his Kremlin counterpart with fanfare, ceremony, and, critics say, a healthy dose of deference.
"Trump had our BRAVE AMERICAN SOLDIERS ON THEIR KNEES to roll out the RED CARPET for his best friend VLAD!" Newsom's press account mimicked Trump's inconsistent online persona by posting on X. "DISGUSTING" was the final word in all caps.
There was no denying the optics, as Washington insiders like to call them. Putin, who has been shunned by the world since he invaded Ukraine in 2022, was welcomed with a royal ceremony rather than chilly formality.
The high-stakes attempt to discuss ending Russia's war in Ukraine was the headline of Friday's meeting at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage. Instead, it turned into a day of photo ops and performative flattery.
Trump drew criticism both domestically and internationally when he greeted Putin with a warm handshake, cheered his arrival, and then accompanied him on a private limousine ride.
By the end of the day, there had been no agreements, no breakthroughs, and most definitely no way to peace.
Russia's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Maria Zakharova, boasted on Telegram that the spectacle was evidence that Moscow was no longer alone. "For three years, they have been reporting that Russia is in isolation, and today they saw the red carpet laid to greet the Russian president in the United States," she wrote.
Nevertheless, the response in Ukraine was one of shock and dismay. "The rational world is behaving irrationally by giving him this welcome," said Maria Drachova, a Kyiv-based lawyer, who told the BBC it looked like "the entire event was staged to please Putin."
Russia celebrated Putin's red carpet walk as a diplomatic victory, with American fighter jets hovering overhead. According to analysts, it reflected a symbolic turnabout for a leader who had been charged by the International Criminal Court with war crimes.
According to Kier Giles of Chatham House, who told the BBC that Trump essentially gave Putin legitimacy, "when he ought to be finding it difficult to travel because he is an internationally wanted war criminal." The images hit much worse in Ukraine, where entire regions have been reduced to rubble and millions have been displaced as a direct result of Putin's actions since 2022.
According to Serhii Orlyk, a Donetsk resident who was displaced, "it was a very unpleasant spectacle -- especially his smirks."
Even Trump's press comments (in which he spoke for only two minutes following the summit, while Putin took eight) played a role in a sense of imbalance. Giles went on to say that Trump's gaffe will help other leaders "not to endorse Putin's demands on Ukraine."
Newsom's attack was about American identity, not just what appears to be.
The governor of California, who often criticizes Trump, used the image of soldiers kneeling in front of Putin to drive home a bigger point: that the US was showing respect for an authoritarian leader who killed hundreds of thousands of people.
The post went viral very fast, received thousands of shares, and created a heated online discussion. While those supporting Trump dismissed the criticism as political theater, supporters said Newsom voiced the outrage that many Americans felt.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called on European leaders to continue to participate in future negotiations and not abandon Trump and Putin. He cautioned that Ukraine could not afford another fake setup of respect.
Sign Our PetitionThe recent spectacle of American soldiers kneeling to roll out the red carpet for Russian President Vladimir Putin at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Alaska has sparked outrage and disbelief, underscoring the dissonance between America's military values and its foreign policy realities. Such images conjure historical parallels where the military's honor is perceived as being compromised by political theatrics. This incident not only reflects a concerning trend of deference to authoritarian regimes, but it also raises profound questions about the ethical implications of U.S. diplomacy and the symbolic gestures that often overshadow substantive dialogue.
Throughout history, the military has been a symbol of national pride and integrity, yet the act of soldiers kneeling—often associated with submission—paints a troubling picture of American leadership. This event, viewed through the lens of past encounters with authoritarian leaders, echoes the moments when the U.S. has compromised its values for the sake of political expediency. From the Nixon administration's overtures to China to the Reagan administration's dealings with the Soviet Union, such gestures have often been cloaked in a veneer of pragmatism. However, this red carpet event seems to cross a line, particularly as it comes at a time when Putin is internationally marginalized due to his aggression in Ukraine, resulting in significant human suffering and displacement.
Governor Gavin Newsom's condemnation of the event speaks to a broader frustration among many American citizens who view these actions as a betrayal of the sacrifices made by military personnel. When Trump, in his characteristic fashion, extends a warm welcome to a leader wanted for war crimes, it diminishes the moral authority of the United States on the global stage. The soldiers' act of kneeling can be interpreted not just as a moment of protocol, but as a disheartening symbol of how foreign policy can sometimes prioritize spectacle over accountability. In this context, it is crucial for citizens to critically engage with how their government represents them abroad and to consider the implications of such displays on international relations and domestic perceptions of military honor.
Moreover, the international reaction, particularly from Ukraine, highlights the broader geopolitical ramifications of this encounter. The statement from Kyiv-based lawyer Maria Drachova encapsulates the shock felt by those directly impacted by the war: the optics of the event seem to legitimize a regime that has wrought havoc on their land. The disconnect between American diplomatic gestures and the lived realities of war-torn nations serves as a stark reminder that politics often operates in a realm detached from the human consequences of its decisions. The Ukrainian experience serves as a cautionary tale; it underscores the dire need for a foreign policy that is grounded in justice and accountability rather than performative diplomacy that prioritizes political theater.
In conclusion, the images from Elmendorf-Richardson are a poignant reminder of how far American foreign policy has strayed from its proclaimed values of democracy and human rights. As citizens, it is imperative to engage in discussions about what kind of America we want to project to the world. This incident is not merely about the optics of a red carpet; it is about the choices we make regarding whom we elevate and whom we hold accountable. As we navigate the complexities of global politics, our commitment to justice and the protection of human rights must remain at the forefront. For those engaging with differing perspectives, this incident serves as a valuable point of contention, highlighting the necessity for a foreign policy that truly reflects the values we espouse.
The recent spectacle at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Alaska, where American soldiers were seen kneeling to roll out the red carpet for Russian President Vladimir Putin, represents a troubling moment in U.S. foreign relations and a stark illustration of the shifting political priorities under the Trump administration. This event, characterized by California Governor Gavin Newsom as "disgusting," serves as a poignant reminder of the complex historical interplay between the United States and Russia, particularly in light of Putin's actions in Ukraine and the reevaluation of the U.S.'s stance on authoritarian regimes. As the world watches, it becomes increasingly clear that the optics of such moments have far-reaching implications, both for foreign policy and for the broader perception of American values.
Historically, the relationship between the U.S. and Russia has been marked by periods of intense rivalry and occasional cooperation. The Cold War era shaped much of the contemporary American psyche regarding Russia, instilling a sense of vigilance towards authoritarian leadership. However, recent events have shown a concerning trend where U.S. political figures, notably Trump, have appeared to validate or even embrace authoritarianism, undermining decades of diplomatic norms. The images from Alaska are symbolic of this shift, demonstrating a willingness to prioritize personal diplomacy over established principles of international justice and human rights. Trump's warm embrace of Putin stands in stark contrast to the ongoing atrocities in Ukraine, where civilian lives are lost daily due to Russia's aggressive military actions.
For Americans who value democratic principles and human rights, this moment provides an opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue about the direction of U.S. foreign policy. It is crucial to remind fellow citizens that political optics matter, and the image of American soldiers kneeling before a leader accused of war crimes can have profound consequences on the global stage. This incident calls for a collective examination of how we, as a nation, respond to authoritarianism. We must assert that the U.S. should not only hold its leaders accountable for their actions but should also champion the principles of democracy and justice internationally. Conversations can be fostered around the need for a robust foreign policy that prioritizes human rights, encouraging individuals to advocate for representatives who will confront authoritarian regimes rather than accommodate them.
Moreover, engaging with right-wing perspectives can be particularly illuminating. It is essential to challenge the narrative that prioritizes personal relationships with world leaders over accountability and ethical governance. Asking questions about the implications of such gestures—like the red carpet treatment of Putin—can open up discussions around the responsibilities of a nation that positions itself as a leader of the free world. We can point out that the actions of the Trump administration signal a dangerous precedent where the pursuit of political gain may override moral obligations. By framing these discussions in terms of shared values—such as the importance of standing up for the oppressed and maintaining the rule of law—we can create a space for critical reflection on the current political trajectory.
In addition to fostering dialogue, Americans can mobilize for action. Grassroots organizations that prioritize human rights, democratic values, and anti-authoritarianism are vital in shaping public opinion and influencing policy. Initiatives that educate citizens about the importance of holding leaders accountable for their actions on the global stage can empower more Americans to become involved in political advocacy. By participating in local and national campaigns, citizens can make their voices heard, urging representatives to adopt a foreign policy that aligns with democratic ideals rather than personal diplomacy that risks legitimizing oppressive regimes.
Ultimately, the spectacle of soldiers kneeling for Putin is more than a moment of poor optics; it is a call to action for those concerned about the future of democracy and human rights in both the United States and abroad. It serves as a catalyst for conversations about our nation's values and the actions we must take to ensure they are upheld. As we move forward, it is imperative to articulate a vision for American foreign policy that is rooted in justice, accountability, and the unwavering belief that the rights of individuals, regardless of their nationality, must be at the forefront of our diplomatic efforts. This is not merely a matter of partisan politics; it is a question of moral integrity and the legacy we choose to leave for future generations.
The recent events surrounding the welcoming of Vladimir Putin by American soldiers at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson raise significant concerns about the implications of such gestures, especially considering the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the wider geopolitical landscape. Here's a detailed list of ideas on what we can do personally to address this situation:
### Personal Actions We Can Take
1. **Educate Yourself and Others:** - Stay informed about international relations, particularly the implications of U.S. foreign policy towards Russia and Ukraine. Share articles, books, and documentaries that provide critical perspectives on the situation. - Consider hosting or attending community discussions or forums to engage with others on the topic.
2. **Support Organizations Working for Peace:** - Contribute to or volunteer with organizations such as: - **Peace Action** - A grassroots organization advocating for peace and disarmament. (Website: peaceaction.org) - **Human Rights Watch** - Focuses on holding governments accountable for human rights abuses. (Website: hrw.org) - Engage in local activism that promotes peace, such as participating in peace marches or awareness events.
3. **Petitioning Government Officials:** - Start or sign petitions that call for a more just and humane foreign policy that does not normalize relations with authoritarian regimes. - Websites like **Change.org** or **Care2** allow you to create or sign petitions.
4. **Writing to Elected Officials:** - Contact your representatives to voice your concerns about the treatment of international relations and the implications of the recent event. Here’s how to do it: - **Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA)** - Email: senator_warren@warren.senate.gov - Mailing Address: 2400 JFK Federal Building, 15 New Sudbury Street, Boston, MA 02203 - **Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT)** - Email: senator_sanders@sanders.senate.gov - Mailing Address: 1 Lincoln Memorial Circle NW, Washington, DC 20002 - **Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY)** - Email: aoc@mail.house.gov - Mailing Address: 2302A Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, DC 20515
**What to Say:** - Express your concerns about the optics of American soldiers welcoming a leader accused of war crimes. - Urge them to advocate for policies that prioritize human rights and international law in foreign relations. - Request transparency and accountability in the U.S. government's dealings with authoritarian regimes.
5. **Engage in Social Media Advocacy:** - Use platforms like Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to raise awareness about the implications of the red carpet event. Share information, articles, and personal opinions to spark dialogue. - Tag relevant officials and organizations to amplify your message.
6. **Support Local Journalism:** - Subscribe to and promote local news outlets that cover these issues critically. Encourage them to investigate and report on U.S. foreign policy and military actions comprehensively.
7. **Attend Town Hall Meetings:** - Participate in local town hall meetings or community forums where foreign policy is discussed. Ask questions and express your views on how the U.S. should be engaging with other countries, particularly in relation to human rights.
8. **Organize or Participate in Awareness Campaigns:** - Collaborate with local activist groups to organize awareness campaigns about the impact of Putin’s regime on Ukrainian citizens and the broader implications of U.S. diplomatic actions. - Create informational flyers or social media content that emphasizes the need for a principled stance on international relations.
By taking these actions, we can contribute to a broader movement advocating for a foreign policy that aligns with democratic values and human rights, ensuring that our voices are heard in the political discourse surrounding these critical issues.