Russian President Vladimir Putin asserted that the conflict in Ukraine would not have happened if Donald Trump had been in office in 2022. Speaking alongside Trump in Alaska, Putin reiterated Trump’s assertion that the current US administration, under Joe Biden, is responsible for the war. Putin detailed a past conversation in 2022 with then-President Biden, where he voiced concerns about the escalating tensions. He said he believed the situation should not have been allowed to reach a point of no return. Putin characterized the recent discussions with Trump as productive and conducted in a spirit of mutual respect. He highlighted the closeness of the two countries geographically. Putin also reminded of Alaska’s shared history with Russia, including its role during World War II as a crucial route for supplying military equipment. He highlighted the cultural heritage of Russia present in Alaska. Putin stated that despite present challenges, he and Trump have held candid dialogues. He noted that Trump’s Special Envoy, Steve Witkoff, had engaged in discussions in Russia, and advisors from both nations were in regular contact, with Ukraine as a key focus. In Russia, the summit between the two leaders was met with widespread excitement and positive coverage in the media.
