The Trump Report Trump urged to ‘fire’ Witkoff for bowing to Russia — as Europe steps up to save Ukraine
Nov 26, 2025
Professor Robert Kelly, a political science expert at Poussaint National University, dissects a leaked audio of Steve Witkoff advising the Kremlin on courting Trump. He reveals how Trump’s ego shapes his flirting with diplomacy, and critiques the inconsistency in Trump’s Ukraine policy. The discussion highlights GOP divisions over support for Ukraine and the difficulties of negotiating territorial concessions. Kelly also explores Europe's potential role in financing Ukraine amid US hesitance, raising questions about accountability and defense without American backing.
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Ego-Driven Diplomacy Risks Policy Tilt
- Robert Kelly argues Steve Witkoff tailors pitches to flatter Trump's ego to win deals rather than follow traditional diplomacy.
- This dynamic risks U.S. policy tilting pro-Russia because Trump responds to flattery and last-person influence.
Policy By Retainers Breeds Inconsistency
- Kelly says Trump relies on retainers like Witkoff instead of the National Security Council, producing inconsistent, person-driven policy.
- That inconsistency explains oscillations between tough rhetoric and conciliatory proposals toward Russia.
South Korea’s Golden Crown Example
- Kelly recounts South Korea's use of flattery (a golden crown) to influence Trump during his visit as a preparation tactic.
- He uses this example to show foreign leaders tailor interactions to appeal to Trump's vanity.