

In Brief: Trump's Tariff Pause, Putin's Peace Pitch to Zelensky
May 13, 2025
Hosts dive into Trump's 90-day tariff pause with China, questioning if it will lead to a lasting deal. They discuss Putin's proposal for peace talks with Zelensky, highlighting the tension in Ukraine. The episode also reveals the controversial use of a Russian interpreter by Trump's envoy in the Kremlin. Moreover, the hosts explore the contrasting strategic mindsets of Western and Eastern leaders, and share a humorous tale showcasing the absurdity of Russian propaganda. It's a whirlwind of diplomatic intrigue and economic implications!
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Trump's Tariffs Pressure China
- Trump's tariffs pushed China to the negotiating table quicker than expected.
- China fears social disruption more acutely than the US due to fragile internal stability.
Putin's Stubbornness and Risks
- Putin refuses to negotiate on terms other than his own conditions.
- Putin is running out of leverage and is unlikely to risk nuclear war with NATO.
Long-Term Thinking of Leaders
- Western leaders think in hours, Putin and Xi think in decades.
- The conflict in Ukraine is part of Russia's long-term strategic plan affecting Europe's security.