Live Q&A: Is Trump working for Putin? And what's Putin got on Trump?
Mar 7, 2025
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Listeners dive into an engaging live Q&A tackling whether Trump is working for Putin and the potential for a military coup. They discuss the complexities of international alliances and the impact of Trumpism on U.S. politics. Humor shines through as they ponder if Zelensky should don a suit upon returning to America and why everyone is fascinated by Lewis's quirky jumper. The conversation also touches on masculinity in politics and the looming threat of global conflict, all while reflecting on the success of this interactive format.
The meeting between Zelensky and Trump indicates potential shifts in NATO and U.S. support for Ukraine, raising geopolitical concerns.
Keir Starmer's cautious approach to U.S. relations reflects a desire to maintain stability while navigating European security challenges.
The unpredictable nature of Trump's policies, particularly on tariffs, contributes to economic uncertainty, impacting markets and voter confidence significantly.
Deep dives
The Shifting Landscape of Western Alliances
The recent meeting between Volodymyr Zelensky and Donald Trump has created uncertainty regarding the future of NATO and Western alliances. With shifts in leadership perceptions, notably regarding leaders like Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron, the potential recalibration of relationships within Europe and the United States is evident. Starmer maintains that the U.S. is still a key ally for peace in Europe, while European leaders have expressed doubts about America's reliability. This alteration raises questions about how Britain can keep America engaged in European security while also stepping up its own role.
Starmer's Stance on U.S.-UK Relations
Keir Starmer's approach to the U.S. suggests a complex relationship shaped by his belief in America's continued importance, yet he remains cautious about defining hard red lines. Unlike European counterparts who are more openly critical of the U.S. relationship, Starmer seems to prioritize finding common ground while navigating sensitive national security concerns. His reluctance to publicly articulate a definitive stance on current U.S. policies indicates an attempt to maintain a stable relationship without jeopardizing national interests. This strategy could evolve if Trump's positioning on issues like Ukraine and security becomes more antagonistic.
Trump's Influence on American Foreign Policy
The impact of Trump’s foreign policy direction on Ukraine raises concerns about the future of U.S. support and international stability. Reports indicate that Trump’s administration seems to be withdrawing support from Ukraine, which poses risks for their negotiation strength. The potential for Trump to dictate terms that favor Russian interests could lead to significant geopolitical unrest, leaving Ukraine vulnerable. This complicated dynamic raises fears about the long-term implications of Trump's approach for future U.S. foreign policy consistency.
The American Economy and Trump's Erratic Policies
The U.S. economy has faced uncertainty under Trump's recent policy changes, particularly regarding tariffs and their implications for inflation. Analysts are predicting potential recession signs, attributing market volatility to unpredictable tariff decisions. Companies are reacting to Trump's unpredictable stance, leading to fears of long-term economic damage. The chaos in economic policy reflects a broader struggle to maintain stability and predictability, causing concern among voters who prioritize economic security.
Long-Term Implications of Trumpism
The enduring nature of Trumpism within the Republican Party raises questions about its future impact after Trump’s potential departure from power. As the party has become more entangled with Trump's ideology, maintaining its hold on power appears to be centered on continuing his legacy. The transformation of the Republican base suggests a shift towards economic nationalism and populist values that may persist beyond Trump. Assessing whether these changes are sustainable without Trump's direct influence will be crucial for the party's future cohesion and direction.
In our first ever Live Q&A edition Jon and Lewis answer your most pressing questions.
Is Trump working for Putin? Will a military coup overthrow the Trump administration? If Zelensky ends up going back to America, should he wear a suit? And why are we all so obsessed with Lewis's jumper?
You can watch our Live Friday Q&A here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zeOrLLSSBhc
Tickets to The News Agents Live On Stage with HSBC UK are now on sale! You can get your tickets for Edinburgh here: https://articles.globalplayer.com/7giHoMavXLgdrd6gaC3GxWG7T8
Editor: Tom Hughes
Executive Producer: Louis Degenhardt
Producer: Natalie Indge
Digital Editor: Michaela Walters
Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell
Video Production: Rory Symon, Shane Fennelly & Arvind Badewal
Digital Journalist: Michael Baggs
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