Thread by @BuzzFeedNews

Russian President Vladimir Putin owned Trump during their meeting in Helsinki.

It was clear Putin was in charge throughout the talks, and Trump handed him something he’s long fought for: A seat at the most important table in the world buzzfeed.com/emilytamkin/vl…

In a joint press conference, Putin denied Russian interference in the 2016 US election (which was to be expected). But then, President Trump *also* expressed doubt interference happened, siding with the Russian president over US intelligence findings buzzfeed.com/emilytamkin/tr…

Several Republican lawmakers called President Trump a “disgrace” for casting doubt on the findings of his own country’s intelligence agencies.

Senator John McCain said “it was one of the most disgraceful performances by an American president in memory" buzzfeed.com/talalansari/di…

Back to that press conference: While Putin summarized what was discussed, Trump instead forcefully denied collusion, bashed the Russia probe, and revisited Hillary's emails, making Putin look like he’s just trying to work with the US (if it could get its diplomatic act together)

Officials present seemed aware things went better for Russia. The Russian delegation appeared positively giddy, and the foreign minister said the meeting went “better than super."

Mike Pompeo, on the other hand, turned away when asked how he thought the meeting went

Putin didn’t manage to get anything concrete from the US, like sanctions relief or recognition that Crimea is a part of Russia. He did walk away with Trump's attention and respect. Coming on the heels of a successful World Cup, that means Putin will be greeted as a hero at home