Judging Freedom

Larry Johnson : Putin Knows History; Does Trump?

10 snips
Aug 11, 2025
Larry Johnson, a former CIA analyst and consultant, delves into the historical savvy of Putin compared to Trump's negotiation tactics. He emphasizes how leaders’ understanding of history can shape geopolitical decisions. The conversation critiques Trump's economic strategies that may paradoxically empower Russia and explores the Kremlin’s perceptions of U.S. leadership dynamics. Johnson also discusses the implications of Trump's comments on nuclear issues amid the Ukraine conflict and examines the Kremlin's indifferent stance.
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INSIGHT

Trump Has No Leverage Over Russia

  • Trump has almost no leverage over Russia; sanctions and tariffs won't change Moscow's behavior.
  • His punishments of BRICS partners have strengthened their resistance to U.S. influence.
ANECDOTE

Diplomacy Missing Its Sherpas

  • Negotiations lack the unseen 'Sherpa' teams who craft language and fix details.
  • Larry Johnson warns Trump skipped that prep, risking public failure.
INSIGHT

War Is About NATO, Not Land

  • Johnson says the conflict isn't a simple territorial quarrel but centers on NATO expansion eastward.
  • Treating it as 'real estate' misreads Putin's core security demand.
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