The much-anticipated Alaska summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump ended without any breakthrough or substantial agreement. Yet, observers noted how Putin seemed far more prepared, confident, and dominant—thanks to the strategic acumen and influence of his core delegation. Here are the five key figures who played a decisive role behind the scenes:
1. Sergei Lavrov—Russia’s Iron Foreign Minister
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Role: Foreign Minister of Russia (since 2004)
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Contribution: Lavrov, Moscow-born in 1950, is Putin’s long-serving foreign policy chief. He has been crucial in shaping global narratives around the Ukraine war, presenting it as the West’s proxy battle against Russia, often with uncompromising rhetoric.
2. Kirill Dmitriev—The Sanctions Dodger
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Role: Head of Russia’s Sovereign Wealth Fund (RDIF) since 2011; Special Envoy for Foreign Investment and Economic Cooperation (2025)
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Contribution: Stanford-educated Dmitriev is credited as the “deal maker” who formulated strategies that helped Russia bypass and withstand Western sanctions. His economic maneuvering has opened new international investment channels and kept Russia moving forward despite global restrictions.
3. Andrey Belousov—Economist Turned Defense Minister
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Role: Russian Defense Minister (appointed 2024); former Economic Advisor and Deputy Prime Minister
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Contribution: Belousov applies economic discipline and technical management to military operations, ensuring Russia’s war machine remains efficient and financially robust during prolonged conflict.
4. Anton Siluanov—Financial Guardian in Wartime
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Role: Finance Minister of Russia (since 2011)
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Contribution: Known for strict budgeting and fiscal discipline, Siluanov is widely credited with navigating the Russian economy through turbulent times, including war shocks. His policies have ensured the country's financial stability and resilience.
5. Yuri Ushakov—The Master Diplomat
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Role: Putin’s Chief Foreign Policy Adviser (since 2012); ex-Ambassador to the US (1999–2008)
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Contribution: Ushakov orchestrates Putin’s major diplomatic encounters, crafts messaging, and shapes Russia’s global image. His calm, calculating approach often stymies Western negotiators and media.
