Donald Trump makes promise to Vladimir Putin in behind-the-scenes moment

On August 15, U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin met face-to-face in Anchorage, Alaska. The encounter drew global attention, with many wondering if it could mark a turning point in the war in Ukraine.

According to reports, the leaders exchanged polite greetings upon arrival, but behind-the-scenes footage quickly became the focus. A short video captured by The National Desk showed Trump speaking privately to Putin. While no audio was available, professional lip reader Jeremy Freeman told the Irish Star that he believes Trump said: “We’ll get it over the line.”

The context of Trump’s remark remains unclear, but it came just after the two leaders were unable to finalize a ceasefire agreement. The meeting, which had initially been expected to end with a joint press conference, instead saw both leaders deliver separate statements without taking questions from reporters.

Still, the conversation between Trump and Putin doesn’t appear to be over. Putin extended an invitation for Trump to visit Moscow, saying in English at the end of their meeting: “Next time in Moscow.” Trump’s response was cautious but open: “I’ll get a little heat on that one, but I could see it possibly happening.”

Afterward, Putin’s envoy for investment and economic cooperation, Kirill Dmitriev, released a video highlighting “significant economic potential” for cooperation between the two countries. He suggested that while some issues remained unresolved, both leaders had found areas of agreement.

Meanwhile, Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, confirmed via X (formerly Twitter) that he is scheduled to meet Trump in Washington, D.C., on August 18. Zelenskyy stated he plans to discuss “all of the details regarding ending the killing and the war.”

Whether Trump’s private words to Putin hint at progress or remain just diplomatic pleasantries is still uncertain. What’s clear is that the next few weeks could be critical for U.S.-Russia relations and for Ukraine’s hopes of ending the war.