Putin and Biden Hold First Summit in Geneva, Relations Remain Deadlocked

In June 2021, Russian President Vladimir Putin and newly inaugurated U.S. President Joe Biden held their much-anticipated first face-to-face summit in Geneva, Switzerland. The meeting took place against the backdrop of U.S.-Russia relations hitting a post-Cold War low and aimed to stabilize the relationship, clarify "red lines," and discuss critical issues like strategic stability, human rights, and cybersecurity.

Following the summit, both sides agreed to hold follow-up dialogue on arms control but failed to achieve any significant breakthroughs on core disputes such as Ukraine or cyberattacks. For conservative observers, the summit reflected the U.S. attempt to use diplomatic engagement to address Russia's persistent aggressive behavior, but it failed to fundamentally alter Putin's authoritarian course. They criticized the engagement for failing to secure substantial concessions, suggesting it might even be interpreted by Russia as a sign of weakness.