Judging Freedom AMB. Chas Freeman : Is Trump Running US Foreign Policy?
Aug 12, 2025
Chas Freeman, a former US Ambassador and foreign policy expert, discusses the nuances of US foreign policy during the Trump administration. He explores the complexities of Trump and Putin's interactions, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of their diplomacy. Freeman critiques historical Russophobia and its impact on European politics, while reflecting on the consequences of diminishing US military support for Ukraine. He also analyzes the geopolitical implications of tariffs on nations buying Russian oil, shedding light on America's evolving role in global affairs.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Professional Diplomacy Is Eroding
- American diplomatic professionalism has largely collapsed from prior decades.
- The Trump administration appears to be engaging Russia on battlefield realities rather than traditional Sherpa-led summit prep.
Summit Agenda Shifts To Territorial Reality
- The Trump administration seems to accept that Russia holds most territory it seized in Ukraine.
- Discussions now center on territorial swaps and compromises that President Zelensky opposes.
Zelensky's Decision Is Existential
- If Zelensky accepts territorial compromise he risks political survival, and if he refuses he risks losing Western support.
- Europe is divided and beginning to consider recognizing battlefield results rather than sustaining open-ended conflict.