Former U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin met in Anchorage, Alaska, on August 15 to discuss the war in Ukraine. After nearly three hours, Trump said, *“We didn’t get there, but we have a very good chance of getting there… we had a really productive meeting.”* No agreement was reached.
The two leaders were welcomed at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson with a flyover of four F-35s and a B-2 Spirit bomber, a U.S. symbol of military power. As the planes passed, Putin’s reaction drew attention.
Body language specialist Inbaal Honigman explained that Putin’s hand stiffened over his pocket, reflecting his KGB training. *“Putin is known for his ‘Gunslinger Gait,’ always keeping one hand still, ready to draw a weapon. His strong hand over his pocket shows he is still ready for action, even decades into his career,”* she said.
Despite the tension, both leaders appeared impressed. *“Trump is seen clasping his hands, proud and delighted. Putin doesn’t even try to hide his glee… not wanting to miss a moment,”* Honigman noted.
Trump then touched Putin’s arm as a gesture of friendship, while Putin nodded in respect.