The Day Bush Saw Putin’s Soul

It was their first meeting in June 2001.  At a press conference in Slovenia, the question was whether Russia could be trusted.

PRESIDENT BUSH: I will answer the question. I looked the man in the eye. I found him to be very straightforward and trustworthy. We had a very good dialogue. I was able to get a sense of his soul; a man deeply committed to his country and the best interests of his country. And I appreciated so very much the frank dialogue.