The Ben Shapiro Show Ep. 2261 - The Trump/Putin FACEOFF: Who’s Winning, Who’s Losing?
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Aug 18, 2025 Tensions rise as President Trump meets with Putin in Alaska, leaving the world questioning the implications of their handshake. The podcast dives into the complex Ukraine-Russia conflict, exploring the human cost and U.S. strategies to realign Russia. Flattery as a negotiation tactic becomes a hot topic when dissecting the Trump-Putin diplomacy. Personal narratives intertwine with political insights, including Melania Trump's poignant letter and the challenges faced by Ukraine amid ongoing turmoil. Humor enters the fray as James Comey shares his thoughts on Taylor Swift.
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Trump’s Twofold Diplomatic Goal
- Ben Shapiro argues Trump's goals include ending the Ukraine war and potentially driving a Russia-China wedge like a reverse Kissinger.
- He warns Putin's aims extend beyond territory to creating a broader anti-Atlanticist sphere in Europe.
Casualties Don't Cripple Russian Resolve
- Shapiro emphasizes Russia treats mass casualties as irrelevant, which changes negotiation dynamics.
- He notes that Russian domestic standing hasn't collapsed despite high casualties, complicating leverage.
Handshake, Red Carpet, And B-2 Flyover
- Shapiro describes Trump's Alaska meeting with Putin, including a dominant handshake and B-2 flyover.
- He frames that show of force as intentional messaging of U.S. military dominance.