Not only diplomacy attracted notice when Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump met in Alaska to discuss the ongoing war in Ukraine. Online comments were triggered by the two leaders’ glaring height disparity, with many claiming that Trump appeared to dominate his Russian opponent from the initial handshake.
The purpose of the eagerly awaited meeting was to look for possible solutions to the Russia-Ukraine war, which has been going on since February 2022. Trump greeted Putin with a red carpet reception, joined by Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
But social media exploded as soon as the two leaders exchanged greetings. Trump appears to be in control and has the first body language, according to one user on Xobserved. He did the tap and had a very strong handshake. Putin appeared small in the opening body language, despite his much smaller stature.
Others quickly pointed out the precise figures. Oh my, I had no idea about the disparity in height until today. Trump is enormous. Putin is 5 7 as well, he wrote. Someone else said, “Interesting, Putin is 5 7.” Trump is six three. There is a noticeable disparity in height. Putin is on stilts once more, although you can’t see it in the video. I’ve heard that he makes himself look taller by wearing really fancy shoes.
The handshake was even likened by some as a showdown. As both men attempt to grasp the knuckle crusher hold, irresistible force vs immovable object is at play. The fact that Putin is shorter than Trump puts him at an early disadvantage. Skeptics, meanwhile, questioned whether the official figures were accurate. Trump should be 6 3 and Putin should be 5 7. Regarding their height, one of them is lying. Trump appears about the same height in the picture, despite being 22 centimeters higher than Putin (190 vs. 168). Is he wearing heels once more? Someone else inquired.
The war in Ukraine continued to be the meeting’s primary emphasis, despite the fact that body language and stature dominated much of the internet discussion. Trump admitted that the topic of U.S.-Russia commerce might be discussed in addition to ceasefire negotiations. He pointed out that business leaders were part of Russia’s delegation and stated that if progress was made, he was willing to look into possible deals.
Despite these obstacles, Vladimir Putin claims he has a great deal of respect for President Trump and his commitment to global peace.image.twitter.com/7W52lkx71N
June 28, 2025, Mila Joy (@MilaLovesJoe)
According to the White House, Trump views Putin’s ongoing military attacks as a negotiating ploy. They’re attempting to negotiate, I believe. He’s attempting to establish the scene. That, I believe, helps him negotiate a better price. He is genuinely saddened by it. “But if they can continue the killing, that helps me make a better deal,” Trump told reporters.
He went on, Perhaps it’s just his genetic makeup, his fabric, or something else entirely. However, he believes that offers him leverage in negotiations. It hurts him, I believe. However, I will be discussing it with him. However, Trump emphasized that Russia may suffer severe repercussions if talks break down. He cautioned that there would be serious economic consequences.
