A month ago, U.S. President Donald Trump received, via his envoy to Moscow Steve Witkoff, a gift from President Vladimir Putin: a painting much appreciated by Trump, but unknown to the public. Witkoff said Trump was “clearly touched by it.”
CNN now displays the portrait, along with an interview with the artist. The painting captures the moment after the July 2024 assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania, when Trump raised his fist in defiance—and it provides an insight into the type of quality that Moscow would like to dominate in Trump’s future. The artist, Nikas Safronov, told CNN: “It was important to me to show the blood, the scar and his bravery during the attempt on his life. He didn’t break down or become afraid, but raised his arm to show he is one with America and will bring back what it deserves.”
