The MeidasTouch Podcast Former State Dept and CIA Official Ned Price on Trump and Ukraine
Aug 21, 2025
Ned Price, a former CIA spokesperson and State Department official, shares urgent insights on the troubling influence Donald Trump has faced from Vladimir Putin. He analyzes the diplomatic dance between these two leaders and discusses how this manipulation impacts U.S. foreign relations, particularly regarding Ukraine. Price emphasizes the shifting dynamics in U.S.-Ukraine relations and Europe's quest for independence amidst security concerns. Additionally, he highlights the need for global military readiness in light of declining U.S. influence and the media's limited focus on pressing international crises.
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Alaska Summit Gave Russia The Messaging Win
- The Alaska summit gave Putin a public platform to frame Ukraine as the obstacle to peace while avoiding concessions.
- Price says that optics and messaging at the summit were a substantive win for Russia and a loss for Ukraine.
Putin's Manipulation Over Tech Spying
- Vladimir Putin used classic intelligence tradecraft to manipulate Donald Trump rather than relying primarily on technical espionage.
- Ned Price warns Putin cultivated rapport and left Trump aligned with the Kremlin's narrative after their meeting.
Trump Relayed Putin Praising His Campaign Lines
- Trump reported Putin raised mail-in voting and complimented his campaign talking points during their ride together.
- Price cites Trump's own comments as evidence Putin ingratiated himself to shape Trump's views.
