Nikas Safronov’s portrait of the US leader, released by CNN, shows him wounded but defiant after facing an assassination attempt
CNN has released an image of the portrait gifted to Donald Trump by Russian President Vladimir Putin last month, depicting the moment when the US leader raised his fist after surviving an assassination attempt in July 2024.
The portrait was handed on to Trump by Steve Witkoff, the US president’s Middle East envoy and a key figure in the Ukraine settlement process, who received it from Putin during talks in Russia. At the time, Witkoff described the artwork as “a beautiful portrait” by a “leading Russian artist.” He added that Trump was “clearly touched by it,” but refrained from sharing other details.
The Kremlin later confirmed that Putin had given Trump an “absolutely personal gift,” but also declined to comment further.
On Tuesday, however, renowned Russian artist Nikas Safronov, who has already painted dozens of world leaders, showed an image of the portrait to CNN. The artwork shows Trump with a bloodied ear and a raised fist while holding his signature red “Make America Great Again” cap. He is set against a backdrop featuring the Statue of Liberty, the New York City coastline, and the US flag.
Read more Expedited Ukraine peace deal unlikely – MoscowAccording to Safronov, the elements are intended to symbolize Trump’s resilience. “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,” he told CNN.
Safronov said he was initially approached by several individuals who asked him to paint Trump “as I see him.” He later suspected the commission was from the Kremlin and chose not to charge for the painting.
Reflecting on the piece, he told TASS that “this is not just a classic portrait, but rather a historical moment that I tried to capture on canvas in all its colors, to give more emotions.” Safronov also described the portrait as invaluable amid the current tensions between the West and Russia. “I’m happy that art could be part of the peace process,” he added.
Putin gifted Trump the portrait as Russia and the US engage in talks on restoring bilateral ties and resolving the Ukraine conflict. While both sides have touted the engagement as productive, the Kremlin has cautioned against expecting any quick breakthroughs when it comes to ending the hostilities.
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