Judging Freedom
Prof. Gilbert Doctorow: Did the Kremlin Underestimate Trump?
Apr 9, 2025
Gilbert Doctorow, a political analyst specializing in US-Russia relations, shares intriguing insights on how the Kremlin views Donald Trump. He discusses the blend of respect and skepticism towards Trump, contrasting it with support for Biden. Doctorow dives into the complexities of U.S. leadership perceptions and the delicate geopolitics involving Iran and Israel. He also reflects on the implications of Trump's musings, like his interest in Greenland, and the ongoing challenges Putin faces in Ukraine, highlighting the need for dialogue in turbulent times.
24:02
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- The Kremlin appreciates Trump's potential for negotiation despite concerns about his volatility and domestic challenges affecting diplomatic relations.
- Russian media critiques Trump's tariff policies, linking them to economic instability in the U.S. while recognizing their potential impact on imports.
Deep dives
Kremlin's Mixed Feelings on Trump
The Kremlin has a cautious view of Donald Trump, acknowledging his volatility but appreciating the potential for negotiation he represents. Initially, they preferred Hillary Clinton in the 2016 election due to her predictability, but recent statements from Russian media suggest a respect for Trump's negotiating style despite his erratic behavior. They express concerns that his domestic weaknesses, exacerbated by economic tariffs, could hinder his ability to foster a positive relationship with Russia. The emerging criticism of Trump's contradictory stances, such as advocating for military budget cuts while simultaneously increasing them, reflects a growing skepticism about his reliability as a negotiating partner.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
