Impromptu Trump breaks with Putin. But will it last?
Jul 15, 2025
Max Boot, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations and national security columnist for The Washington Post, teams up with Kori Schake, the foreign and defense policy lead at the American Enterprise Institute. They explore Trump's unexpected shift towards supplying weapons to Ukraine and what it means for NATO and Russia. The duo analyzes the complexities of Trump's evolving stance on Putin, the impact on his America First supporters, and Ukraine's resilience in the ongoing conflict. Insights unfold on how Trump’s decisions may redefine foreign policy in tumultuous times.
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Trump's Shift on Ukraine and NATO
- Trump's announced weapons deal marks a notable shift in his stance on Ukraine and NATO.
- His support for NATO allies contrasts with his previous skepticism of the alliance.
NATO's Role in Influencing Trump
- NATO Secretary Mark Rutte's coalition skills helped bring Trump around to committing to defense spending.
- This maneuvering enabled weapons to be supplied to Ukraine through NATO allies.
Trump's Changing View of Putin
- Trump initially believed his friendship with Putin would end the Ukraine war.
- Six months of frustration showed Putin's refusal to compromise, ending Trump's illusion.