The Playbook Podcast August 18, 2025: Zelenskyy in the Oval Office: Take 2
Aug 18, 2025
The meeting between Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and President Trump takes center stage, with European leaders influencing the discussion. The hosts delve into the intricate diplomatic dynamics involving NATO and the ongoing Ukrainian conflict. They also discuss the militarization of Washington D.C. and the resulting cultural tensions. Additionally, California's redistricting efforts highlight new political strategies, as the implications of gerrymandering and its impact on society take the spotlight.
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Europe's Diplomatic 'Trump Whisperer'
- European leaders deliberately used a conciliatory tone to court President Trump and keep him engaged on Ukraine.
- The White House reciprocated by inviting NATO and EU leaders to Washington to shape shared policy.
Narrative Surrender To Putin
- Fiona Hill says Trump ceded the narrative to Putin during the Alaska summit and got little from it publicly.
- Putin framed the war's origin as a counterfactual advantage for Trump, shaping perception more than facts.
Secrecy Clashes With Trump's Style
- Diplomacy with Russia requires tight secrecy and message control that clashes with Trump's open-book style.
- That tension makes it hard to judge the real outcomes until concrete actions appear.