The Rest Is Politics 439. The Pro-Putin President: Are Zelensky and Europe sleepwalking into disaster?
202 snips
Aug 19, 2025 The podcast dives into the dangerous dance between Trump, Putin, and Europe, questioning if appeasement is smart or reckless. It discusses the urgency of diplomatic efforts as Ukraine's sovereignty hangs in the balance. Garry Kasparov's historic comparisons of Putin to Hitler highlight the need for robust leadership against tyranny. In Israel, rising protests against Netanyahu reveal shifting public sentiment and complicated coalition politics amidst the ongoing Gaza conflict. The conversation interweaves these geopolitical tensions with the implications of USAID in promoting peace.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Trump Leaning Toward Putin's Position
- Rory and Alastair argue Trump appears inclined to give Putin concessions rather than defend Ukraine and Europe.
- They warn this may freeze conflict into a pro-Russian settlement if Zelensky won't accept land losses.
Trust Is The Central Problem
- Alastair says the core issue is trust: Putin versus Trump and whether anyone can trust either.
- European leaders rushed to Washington because Alaska's optics and substance alarmed them about a Putin-friendly outcome.
Trump's Priorities Shift The Calculus
- Rory suggests Trump's priorities are fame, money and transactional deals, not defending Ukraine or NATO.
- That explains his tolerance for Putin and appetite for spectacle with visiting European leaders.