A framed photograph of Donald Trump with Vladimir Putin has been added to the White House decor, drawing criticism from politicians and media figures. The image, taken at their summit in Alaska last August, now hangs in the Palm Room, which connects the West Wing to the executive residence. It is positioned directly above a photo of Trump with one of his grandchildren.
The display was first noted by PBS White House correspondent Elizabeth Landers on Tuesday. A Bloomberg photographer also captured the image. The Palm Room typically serves as a lobby for visitors; Trump posted images of its renovation in late December.
A White House spokesperson defended the choice, stating that the Alaska Summit was a historic moment that helped bring Ukraine and Russia closer to a deal, blaming the war on Joe Biden's incompetence. They added that photographs are rotated frequently to highlight presidential travel. A White House official noted that it is not unusual for the administration to display photos of the president's public meetings, and that images of other world leaders are also featured.
The photo drew a reaction from Moscow, with Putin's special envoy Kirill Dmitriev commenting on X: 'Good. A picture is worth a thousand words,' accompanied by emojis including a dove, Russian flag, handshake and American flag.
Critics were swift to condemn the display. Virginia Senator Mark Warner said on social media: 'Putting Putin above the American people and his own family. Almost a little too on the nose.' Marko Mihkelson, chair of Estonia's parliamentary foreign affairs committee, described Putin as 'the greatest war criminal of the 21st century'. CNN's Jake Tapper called it an 'interesting moment to commemorate', noting that despite Trump's threats of 'severe consequences' if Putin did not agree to a ceasefire, Russia's war on Ukraine continues.
The addition comes as Trump has undertaken renovations at the White House since retaking office last year, including demolishing the East Wing to build a $300m ballroom.
