Putin was welcomed with an elaborate setup at Alaska's Elmendorf Air Base, which includes a red carpet, multiple fighter jets, and bold signage proclaiming "ALASKA 2025." An "Alaska 2025" sign and red carpet were ready on the base tarmac for the leaders' arrival. The carpeting was lined on either side with fighter jets, parked at an angle.

In an unexpected moment during an event about the 2026 World Cup draw, President Donald Trump pulled out a photo of him and Russian President Vladimir Putin during their meeting in Alaska.

Russian leader Vladimir Putin could be invited to next year’s World Cup in North America, US President Donald Trump has suggested. Speaking at a press conference announcing the date and draw of the 2026 tournament on Friday,