The Foreign Affairs Interview cover image

The Foreign Affairs Interview

What Does Trump See in Putin?

Mar 13, 2025
Fiona Hill, a renowned expert on Russia and former senior director for European and Russian affairs on the National Security Council, joins the conversation. She discusses Trump’s complex relationship with Putin and the implications for U.S.-Russia ties amid rising tensions in Ukraine. Hill critiques Trump's diplomatic approach with Zelensky and evaluates the risks of negotiating with a strongman like Putin. She also sheds light on the evolving Russia-China dynamic and the broader impact on global power dynamics.
56:42

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Trump's admiration for Putin complicates U.S.-Ukrainian relations, emphasizing personal loyalty over geopolitical commitments amidst the ongoing conflict.
  • The rapid shift in U.S.-Russia relations under Trump raises concerns across Europe, questioning NATO's stability and American commitment to European security.

Deep dives

Trump's Approach to Putin and Zelensky

Trump's relationship with both Putin and Zelensky illustrates a unique and troubling dynamic characterized by admiration for authoritarian leadership. He has often aimed to position himself as a dominant figure in these interactions, which manifests in his condescending attitudes towards Zelensky and a preference for personal deals. Trump indicated a lack of respect for Ukraine's previous agreements, reinforcing a notion of loyalty that revolves around personal connections rather than geopolitical realities. This approach can undermine Ukraine’s standing and ultimately shift the balance of power in favor of Putin during the ongoing conflict.

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