At the summit in Anchorage, the interaction between US President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin attracted attention not only because of official statements but also due to their body language. According to CNN’s observations, the relationship between the two leaders was “far from cold.”
Reports state that when Putin approached Trump along the red carpet, the American president welcomed him by clapping twice. Then the leaders shook hands, repeating the gesture twice. Afterwards, they walked together toward Trump’s limousine. Before the official talks began, both smiled and exchanged a few remarks, softening and lightening the atmosphere.
Later, during the meeting with delegations, both Trump and Putin were seen smiling several times. Although Trump’s face generally appeared “stern and rigid,” he occasionally showed a more amiable expression.
CNN recalled that Putin often expresses his attitude through posture and gestures. Some former US presidents noted his habit of slouching during speeches, which was seen as a sign of disinterest. However, in Alaska this time, Putin behaved differently. He did not slouch; instead, leaning slightly forward with his hands clasped, he sat under the flashing cameras and amidst unanswered questions from journalists.
NBC, meanwhile, compared this meeting to one in February. In particular, it highlighted the noticeable difference between how Trump welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and how he received Putin. According to TV analysts, Putin’s reception was much warmer and more friendly.
It should be recalled that in February, tensions arose between Trump and Zelensky, and US Vice President James Vance criticized the Ukrainian leader for “not showing enough respect.”
Trump and Putin met on August 15 in Alaska and held talks at a military base in Anchorage. At the end of the meeting, the presidents came out to the press, read their statements, and then left the hall without answering journalists’ questions.
In conclusion, although the Anchorage summit ended without an official agreement, the leaders’ body language, smiles, and style of interaction indicated an effort to create a warmer atmosphere in bilateral relations. This increases the likelihood of a new chapter in US-Russia relations.
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