Diplomatic gesture through art: In March, Vladimir Putin sent Donald Trump a previously unseen portrait of the former president, delivered by Trump envoy Steve Witkoff, it has now been disclosed.
Originally described as “a beautiful portrait” by a “leading Russian artist,” the painting remained hidden from public view until April 22.
Renowned Russian portrait artist Nikas Safronov offered CNN an exclusive first look at the Kremlin-commissioned piece.
The striking oil painting captures Trump at his Butler, Pennsylvania rally in July 2024—bloodied but unyielding, with his fist raised in a symbolic act of defiance following an assassination attempt.
“I aimed to portray the blood, the scar, and his courage,” Safronov said. “He didn’t retreat or show fear; he lifted his arm to show unity with America and his resolve to restore its greatness.”
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Safronov, known for painting global leaders including Pope Francis, Narendra Modi, and Kim Jong Un, said he was initially approached by unidentified individuals seeking a Trump portrait.
Believing they were Kremlin representatives, Safronov declined payment upon realizing the artwork’s diplomatic significance.
Putin later confirmed the portrait was intended as a goodwill gesture to improve U.S.–Russia relations.
The painting now hangs in the White House’s Grand Foyer, replacing the official portrait of Barack Obama.
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