Will Putin Keep Trump Waiting Again?

The world holds its breath as former US President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin prepare for a high-stakes meeting in Anchorage, Alaska. Trump recently claimed he would gauge Putin’s seriousness about ending the Ukraine war “within the first two minutes” of their encounter. But the real test might come even sooner – when Putin’s plane touches down on Alaskan soil.

History suggests this could be telling moment. Seven years ago at the Helsinki summit, Putin famously kept Trump waiting for over an hour, arriving a mere ten minutes before their scheduled meeting. This calculated delay, following a similar four-hour wait imposed on German Chancellor Angela Merkel, was widely interpreted as a power move – a subtle demonstration of dominance on the global stage.

Yet today’s circumstances differ dramatically. With Russia increasingly isolated internationally and its economy straining under sanctions, Putin may approach this summit differently. His punctuality – or lack thereof – could speak volumes before negotiations even begin. While a timely arrival might signal willingness to deal, another deliberate delay would undoubtedly send a stark message about Russia’s position.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov insists Putin will be punctual this time, stating “the president always arrives on time” during his flight through Russia’s Far East. This assurance comes despite Putin’s well-documented history of tardiness in diplomatic settings. Peskov revealed the Trump Putin meeting could span six to seven hours, indicating both sides anticipate substantial discussions.

The summit’s structure suggests careful choreography. Initial private talks between Trump and Putin will include interpreters and select aides, followed by a working lunch with business representatives. This format hints at broader discussions beyond immediate geopolitical concerns, possibly touching on economic cooperation despite current tensions.

As the two leaders prepare to face each other again, the world watches for more than just policy announcements. Every gesture, every minute of waiting, every public statement will be scrutinized for what it reveals about the balance of power between these two formidable figures. The question remains: will this be a meeting of equals, or will Putin’s notorious timing games continue to define the Trump Putin dynamic?

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