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Impolitic with John Heilemann
M. Gessen: What Putin Wants (Beyond Making Trump His Bitch)
Mar 10, 2025
M. Gessen, a Moscow-born journalist and New York Times opinion columnist, dives deep into the shifting tides of U.S. policy amid the Ukraine war. They discuss Trump's curious alignment with Putin, revealing how it reshapes support for Volodymyr Zelensky and impacts Europe. Gessen also examines Putin's imperial ambitions rooted in historical accords and the urgent need for a robust European defense strategy. The conversation highlights the perilous stakes of right-wing populism and the complex dynamics of contemporary geopolitics.
01:12:56
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Quick takeaways
- M. Gessen argues that Trump's foreign policy shift reflects a troubling alignment with authoritarian regimes, impacting Ukraine's defense strategy.
- Putin's ambitions extend beyond territorial gains, aiming to restore Russia's global influence and posing a significant threat to regional stability.
Deep dives
The Dynamics of Peace Negotiations
Ukraine is ready to engage in negotiations to achieve lasting peace, as indicated by President Zelensky's recent correspondence. His willingness to come to the table highlights the urgency of the situation, as the need for stability in the region becomes increasingly critical. The U.S. administration's commitment to support Ukraine's sovereignty is crucial, especially in light of Trump's controversial statements about negotiating terms favorable to Russia. The episode underscores the fragility of the peace process, as Zelensky's optimism is juxtaposed against aggressive military actions by Russia, demonstrating the complexity of reaching a diplomatic resolution.
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Discover
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Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode