President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are set to meet in person on Friday in Anchorage, Alaska, marking their first face-to-face encounter in six years.
2015 – Initial Mutual Admiration
In late 2015, during Trump’s campaign for his first term, the two leaders began publicly praising each other. Putin described Trump as an “absolute leader of the presidential race,” highlighting Trump’s talents.
Later, at a rally in Ohio, Trump expressed how honored he felt by Putin’s compliments, emphasizing the potential for cooperation between the U.S. and Russia to tackle terrorism and improve trade relationships.
2017 – First Official Meeting
Trump and Putin had their first official meeting during the G20 Summit in Hamburg, Germany, on July 7, 2017. The conversation lasted over two hours, with discussions surrounding the Syrian crisis and allegations of Russian interference in the U.S. elections.
At the time, then-Secretary of State Rex Tillerson mentioned that Trump and Putin were connecting “very quickly” and shared “positive chemistry.”
2017 – APEC Summit in Vietnam
Later that year, at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit in Vietnam on November 10, they were seen shaking hands during a group photo. Despite scheduling issues, officials indicated no formal meeting was planned.
2018 – Helsinki Summit
On July 16, 2018, Trump and Putin met again at the Presidential Palace in Helsinki, Finland. Putin later shared that they discussed several issues, including Iran and North Korea, and that Trump had expressed his view on Crimea, acknowledging it as part of Ukraine.
2019 – Osaka Meeting
At the G20 Summit in Osaka, Japan, a few months later, Trump mentioned he and Putin had engaged in a “risqué debate.” He remarked on the untapped potential for trade between the U.S. and Russia, noting the rich resources in Russia.
When asked about election interference, Trump told reporters directly, “Don’t interfere in the election,” while sitting next to Putin.
2025 – Anticipated Meeting
As Trump heads into Friday’s meeting in Anchorage, it will be their first direct interaction since the Ukraine invasion. Before this summit, they exchanged phone calls throughout the year, discussing ceasefire prospects in the ongoing conflict.
Trump is eager to grasp the possibility of a ceasefire, suggesting he could make a decision shortly after their meeting begins. This conference occurs against the backdrop of heightened tensions and is notably the first U.S.-Russia summit since June 2021, just before the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Trump has framed the upcoming discussions as crucial for potentially easing the conflict in Ukraine.
