Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, confirmed the transport of the painting from Moscow, calling it a "beautiful portrait" by a prominent Russian artist. Nonetheless, no additional commentary about the artwork was provided. The exchange, which coincides with ongoing negotiations between American and Russian officials concerning Ukraine, indicates a thaw in relations since Trump's return to the White House in January.

On social media platform Truth Social, Trump criticized the Colorado painting, which had been presented in 2019, claiming it was "purposefully distorted." He contrasted it with the portrayal of former President Barack Obama by the same artist, Sarah Boardman, which he praised as looking "wonderful."

The Colorado portrait controversy led to bipartisan appeals for its removal after backlash arose, noting that it had initially been commissioned through a Republican crowdfunding campaign to replace a previously emptied space. In response to the controversy, Colorado Governor Jared Polis, whom Trump criticized regarding crime, expressed surprise at Trump's interest in state artwork.

While Trump has yet to publicly react to the Putin-gifted painting, the episode underscores the complexities of presidential portraiture and the often subjective nature of viewers' perceptions. Art experts have noted that reactions to political portraits can evoke emotional baggage stemming from the subject’s standing.