Donald Trump didn’t waste time making a statement, even before the cameras stopped rolling.
The U.S. President’s highly anticipated meeting with Vladimir Putin in Anchorage, Alaska, began with handshakes, smiles, and a dramatic red carpet walk. But thanks to a lip reader, we now know what Trump said during those first crucial moments… and it’s sparking headlines around the world.
“Game on”: Trump’s confident greeting caught on camera
According to expert lip reader Jeremy Freeman, Trump began his conversation with Putin by saying “Finally,” which was a nod to the long-awaited summit. He quickly followed with a firm yet friendly line: “You made it, great to see you and it’s appreciated.”
Then came the remark that’s now making waves: “Game on.”
Trump didn’t say it with aggression, but with deliberate clarity, setting a serious, strategic tone. He added, “It’s lovely to see you,” and praised the setting with, “It’s wonderful in Alaska.”
The exchange unfolded beneath roaring American jets in patriotic formation — a moment Trump called “symbolic” and “great for you.” Putin nodded in agreement, reportedly saying “Yes, I agree, thank you.”
American strength on display — and diplomacy in motion
While critics focused on the red carpet, Trump supporters saw a powerful symbol of leadership. The president’s comments, body language, and use of military symbolism projected a clear message of confidence and control.
He finished the walk with a courteous “after you,” allowing Putin to step forward first. It was a subtle but notable gesture of diplomacy.
What came next: major talking points, Moscow invite, and economic potential
After nearly three hours of closed-door discussions, Trump spoke to reporters with cautious optimism: “We agreed on some big points,” he said. “There’s no deal until there’s a deal, but we’ve made some headway.”
Putin echoed that sentiment and even invited Trump to Moscow. The U.S. president responded with his signature wit: “That’s an interesting one. I’ll get a little heat on that one, but I could see it possibly happening.”
Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev later described the summit as “definitely productive” and praised Trump for identifying a “significant economic potential” in U.S.-Russia cooperation.
For Trump, who has long championed peace through strength, the Alaska meeting was another example of diplomacy done his way: face-to-face, on his terms, and with a message the world couldn’t miss.