Trump's Receptions for Xi and Putin Compared by AP

Associated Press compared the ceremonial receptions of US President Donald Trump for Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Xi arrived in Washington overnight Thursday, with Trump personally greeting him at the aircraft steps. Trump met Xi at Andrews Air Force Base near Washington, a rare gesture, as both nations agreed to extend a trade truce until January. The ceremony included a B-1 bomber flyover, honor guards, flags, and anthems, mirroring Trump's earlier reception in Beijing. The report noted the long red carpet for Xi resembled one laid for Putin in Alaska last summer. Xi's three-day visit is largely ceremonial, with substantive talks, a gala dinner, and a private tea with the Trumps scheduled.