The Rest Is Politics: US 141. Trump, Putin, Zelensky: What They Want In Ukraine
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Dec 30, 2025 The discussion dives into the complex dynamics between Trump, Putin, and Ukraine, pondering where Trump's loyalties truly lie. They analyze potential concessions Trump could make to Putin amidst Republican resistance and the implications for NATO and sanctions. The hosts also tackle Putin’s ambitions, focusing on his desire for regime survival and the status of Russia. Shifting gears, they uncover a Minnesota fraud scandal linked to COVID funds, exploring its political ramifications and advising Democrats on how to navigate the fallout.
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Trump's 'Goodwill' Claim Versus Reality
- Donald Trump framed Vladimir Putin as having goodwill toward Ukraine after a private call, despite ongoing Russian attacks.
- Katty Kay and Anthony Scaramucci argue facts on the ground contradict that portrayal and see it as flippant rhetoric.
The 'Trump Funnel' Driving His Ukraine Signals
- Anthony Scaramucci outlines a 'Trump funnel' shaped by Republican senators, the Western alliance, and Trump's fatigue.
- That funnel pulls Trump between placating Putin and avoiding rupture with U.S. allies.
What Trump Could Offer Putin
- Scaramucci lists what Trump might give Putin: territorial recognition, keeping Ukraine out of NATO, sanctions relief, and reduced U.S. forces.
- Katty Kay and Scaramucci conclude some items (e.g., NATO exclusion, partial sanctions relief) are plausible short-term outcomes, but not outright territorial concession.