Donald Trump's whispered promise to Putin during Alaska talks raises eyebrows

Donald Trump seemed to immediately back Vladimir Putin as they met for pivotal discussions in Alaska this evening, with a lip reader revealing the moment he whispered "I'll help you".

The two global leaders were all smiles as they landed in Anchorage, the capital of Alaska, this evening for talks on a ceasefire in Ukraine. They appeared to be the best of friends as they strolled along the red carpet towards Mr Trump's waiting Presidential limousine.

Their body language was well received in Russia, where state-aligned media outlets lauded the "friendly" greeting.

A lipreader has now provided insight into what the two actually said to each other, as their initial conversation was drowned out by the noise of American jets flying in a celebratory formation overhead.

Speaking to The Mirror, lipreader Nicola Hickling said the first thing Mr Trump said to his Russian counterpart was "finally", with the two exchanging a few more words as they walked towards the President's car.

She added that, as the two shook hands, Mr Trump said: "You made it, fantastic to see you and appreciated."

Ms Hickling noted that the President then took a "sharp intake of breath through his teeth" before Putin responded with an olive branch, saying: "Thank you - and you. I am here to help you."

She said Mr Trump replied with "I'll help you".

The two leaders were already making their way down the red carpet, appearing to converse amicably. However, lipreader Ms Hickling revealed that Mr Trump emphasised the "serious" nature of the meeting.

At one point, Putin seemed to suggest he would "bring it to a rest" to which the US President responded: "I hope it does."

As they approached 'The Beast' - Mr Trump's name for his limousine - Ms Hickling said Mr Trump instructed his counterpart: "Come on, let's get straight into the vehicle. We need to move forward, both giving it attention."

Upon reaching the podium for their first official photos together, Ms Hickling said Mr Trump took charge again, aiming to make "a good impression". She reported him saying to Putin: "Thank you. Let's shake hands - it gives a good impression."

In response, she said Putin simply replied with a "thank you".

The initial encounter between the Russian and US leaders has instantly sparked controversy, with Mr Trump facing severe criticism for his warm welcome of Putin.

Ukrainians, expressing their "disgusted" at the red carpet treatment, were not represented in the meeting. The country's president, Volodymyr Zelensky, insisted there should be trilateral talks involving himself.

He stated ahead of Wednesday's discussions: "Everything concerning Ukraine must be discussed exclusively with Ukraine. We must prepare a trilateral format for talks."