Trump To Putin During First Meeting: It’s An ‘Honor To Be With You’

President Donald Trump shakes hands with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the G20 Summit, Friday, July 7, 2017, in Hamburg. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Speaking to the press amid their first in-person meeting Friday, President Donald Trump said the conversation with Russia President Vladimir Putin is “going really well.”

“We’ve had some good talks. We’re going to talk now and obviously that will continue, but we look forward to a lot of positive things happening for Russia, for the United States and for everyone concerned. It’s an honor to be with you,” Trump said, turning to Putin for a handshake. The pair were seated in white chairs, accompanied by translators, U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Russia Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergey Lavrov.

Putin acknowledged the two had spoken on the phone several times “on very important bilateral and international issues.”

“But phone conversations are never enough definitely,” Putin said. “If you want to have a positive outcome in bilaterals and be able to resolve most international policy issues that will really need personal meetings.”

“I’m delighted to meet you in person and hope, as you said, our meeting will yield positive results,” Putin added, wrapping up the two Presidents’ comments to the press.

Correction: This post originally quoted Putin as saying “one conversation is never enough” with Trump. The Russia president said “phone conversations are never enough.”

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Notable Replies

  1. Yeah, Trump is sure to castigate Putin over Russia’s tampering with our election. And my miniature pinscher will join me in a game of chess after our walk.

  2. Former KGB Colonel vs Carnival Barker?

    Wonder who’s going to win that battle of wits?

  3. Avatar for dcd dcd says:

    He’s already asking for the second date during the first date? That is so desperate. How long before Putin gives him the “it’s not you, it’s me” speech?

  4. “Vladimir, can I wear the blue dress for you next time? I would be honored”

  5. Wow look a drump really fight hard for America, those people who voted for him were so right. /snark

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