Russian President Vladimir Putin was seen beaming after his high-profile meeting with President Donald J. Trump in Alaska — a striking image that immediately went viral and fueled intense online discussion.

“PUTIN RIDES AWAY WITH TRUMP… SMILING. Putin was seen smiling as he departed alongside Trump. It comes after more than three years of diplomatic isolation following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine,” posted commentator Mario Nawfal on X.

“Russian President Vladimir Putin beams with a giant smile as he and President Trump depart for their summit in the presidential limousine, the Beast,” noted Red Wave Press.

Russian media also celebrated the moment. “Putin and Trump leave TOGETHER in 47’s presidential limo. All smiles so far,” RT reported.

Other users emphasized the historic symbolism: “HISTORY was made today… first time PUTIN rode in the U.S. PRESIDENT LIMO called ‘THE BEAST’! Trump and Putin cruising in the back seat!” one account declared.

The imagery of Trump and Putin riding together in the armored limousine — a privilege reserved for America’s closest allies — underscored the significance of the Alaska summit. For Putin, it marked not only a break from years of diplomatic isolation, but also his first time ever inside the legendary U.S. presidential vehicle.

Following the meeting, President Trump praised the talks on his Truth Social account:

“A great and very successful day in Alaska! The meeting with President Vladimir Putin of Russia went very well, as did a late night phone call with President Zelenskyy of Ukraine, and various European Leaders, including the highly respected Secretary General of NATO. It was determined by all that the best way to end the horrific war between Russia and Ukraine is to go directly to a Peace Agreement, which would end the war, and not a mere Ceasefire Agreement, which often times do not hold up. President Zelenskyy will be coming to D.C., the Oval Office, on Monday afternoon. If all works out, we will then schedule a meeting with President Putin. Potentially, millions of people’s lives will be saved. Thank you for your attention to this matter!”

Though scheduled for four hours, the summit concluded in just three, with both leaders projecting optimism. Trump called the discussions “extremely productive,” while Putin emphasized they were held in a “constructive atmosphere of mutual respect.”

Putin confirmed that “agreements” were reached, though he withheld specifics, framing the outcome as a potential turning point in U.S.–Russia relations.

“Today’s agreement will be the starting point not only for the solution in Ukraine, but will also help us bring back business between Russia and the U.S.,” Putin said.

He referred to Ukraine as a “brotherly nation,” language he has often used to justify his 2022 invasion, and insisted the “primary roots” of the conflict must be addressed.

President Trump, while stressing progress, made clear that a full settlement remains on the horizon.

“There were many, many points that we agreed on, most of them, I would say. A couple of big ones that we haven’t quite gotten there, but we’ve made some headway,” Trump told reporters. “There’s no deal until there’s a deal.”

The president announced he will brief Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and NATO leaders on the Alaska discussions, while working to arrange a direct meeting between Zelenskyy and Putin. Whether that next step was advanced in Alaska remains uncertain.