On Friday, Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin met in Anchorage, Alaska. Portuguese media described it as symbolic talks about dividing the world into spheres of influence, similar to the historical conferences in Yalta and Potsdam. US-Russia relations are entering a new phase – commentators emphasize.
According to commentators from the TV station SIC, the friendly gestures of Trump and Putin during the Alaska meeting demonstrate that relations between Washington and Moscow have entered a new phase. These were the first talks with the Russian leader during the American politician’s second presidency.
The Alaska Meeting Like World War II Conferences
The Lisbon TV station SIC noted “backslapping,” “friendly gestures,” and “mutual courtesy” from both politicians. These elements, according to SIC, indicate a decreasing level of tension between the White House and the Kremlin.
A similar view of the Trump-Putin meeting in Alaska is shared by commentators from the public television RTP. According to them, it was “like talks about dividing the world into spheres of influence.”
The Trump-Putin meeting evoked memories of the peace conferences in Yalta and Potsdam during World War II, where world leaders discussed other countries, establishing a new order and new spheres of influence – assessed RTP.
Trump and Putin Discussed the Future of Ukraine
Portuguese commentators point to Ukraine as the main topic of discussion between Trump and Putin in Alaska. However, the range of topics was much broader. The world leaders “in a friendly manner” likely also discussed the future of other countries, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict and global spheres of influence.
“Noteworthy after the Alaska meeting are the improving relations between the US and Russia. Frequent accusations, suspicions, and ultimatums in recent months have been replaced by calm negotiations conducted directly,” summarized RTP commentators.