Anton Troianovski, Moscow bureau chief for The New York Times, brings his insights on the shifting U.S. foreign policy under the Trump administration. He discusses how Trump's embrace of Russia complicates Europe’s relationship with the U.S. and undermines Ukraine's position in the conflict. Troianovski analyzes contrasting diplomatic strategies from Biden and Trump, the exhilaration in Moscow versus confusion in Europe, and ordinary Ukrainians' perspectives on the war and skepticism towards peace negotiations. It's a revealing look at the geopolitical landscape.
The Trump administration's engagement with Russia signals a significant departure from conventional U.S. foreign policy regarding the Ukraine conflict.
Concerns among European allies grow as the U.S. hints at a diminished commitment to Ukraine's security and sovereignty in negotiations.
Deep dives
Shift in U.S. Foreign Policy Towards Russia
The recent actions of the Trump administration indicate a dramatic shift in U.S. foreign policy regarding the Ukraine conflict. Unlike the Biden administration's strategy of isolating Russia through sanctions and collective Western pressure, Trump has taken steps to engage directly with Russian leadership. A notable instance includes a call between Trump and Putin, where they agreed on the need to stop the war in Ukraine, marking the first communication between a sitting American president and Putin since the invasion commenced. This approach raises concerns among allies, signaling a deviation from established diplomatic norms and the potential weakening of U.S. support for Ukraine.
Implications of Hegseth's Statements
During a recent speech, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth made several controversial assertions regarding Ukraine's future and security guarantees. He indicated that returning to pre-2014 borders was unrealistic and suggested that NATO membership for Ukraine was unlikely, thus signaling a willingness to make concessions to Russia even before negotiations commenced. This public declaration alarmed European partners, who now face the daunting task of ensuring Ukraine's security without the expected support from the United States. The speech exemplifies how the U.S. may be altering its commitments in the face of Russian aggression, leaving Europe uncertain about its role and security in the region.
Europe's Role in Future Peace Talks
The expectations for Europe's involvement in peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia are becoming increasingly unclear. Reports suggest the Trump administration views those talks as primarily a U.S.-Russia matter, potentially excluding European allies despite their significant contributions to Ukraine. This exclusion reflects broader shifts in transatlantic relations and raises questions about Europe's capacity to manage its security independently of U.S. support. As discussions evolve, both Ukraine and its European allies are concerned that compromises may occur without their input, undermining the complex dynamics needed for lasting peace in the region.
A few days ago, the Trump administration began blowing up America’s existing approach to ending the war in Europe by embracing Russia and snubbing Ukraine.
The shift has quickly turned into a broader assault on America’s relationship with Europe.
Anton Troianovski, the Moscow bureau chief of The Times, explains how it’s all adding up to a stunning victory for Vladimir V. Putin.
Guest: Anton Troianovski, the Moscow bureau chief for The New York Times.
For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.
Photo: Tyler Hicks/The New York Times
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