Putin Ignores Civilian-Death Questions as Trump Summit Opens in Alaska

Russian President Vladimir Putin avoided answering repeated questions about civilian casualties in Ukraine as he arrived in Anchorage, Alaska, on Friday for the first face-to-face meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump since 2021. On the tarmac at Joint Base Elmendorf–Richardson, reporters shouted queries including “Will you stop killing civilians?” and “Will you agree to a cease-fire?” Putin responded only by pointing to his ear and shrugging, while Trump remained silent before escorting the Russian leader to the presidential motorcade. The high-stakes talks, expanded at the last minute to include senior aides, are expected to focus on Russia’s war in Ukraine and related U.S. sanctions. Putin’s muted reaction to the questions underlined the scrutiny he faces over alleged war crimes and the continuing toll on Ukrainian civilians.