Battle Lines
Trump edition: America's embrace of Russia and how to end a war
Feb 21, 2025
Professor Sir Lawrence Freedman, Emeritus Professor of War Studies at King's College London, delves into the turbulent dynamics between President Trump and Ukrainian President Zelensky amidst negotiations with Russia. He analyzes why Trump has shifted his stance towards Russia and contrasts it with American public sentiment. Freedman also raises thought-provoking questions on how wars end, exploring historical precedents and the nuances of ensuring equitable peace agreements without military defeat. His insights illuminate the complexities of contemporary geopolitical tensions.
35:57
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Quick takeaways
- Trump's contentious remarks toward Zelensky amid peace talks with Russia highlight a political rift in the U.S. regarding foreign military support.
- Professor Freedman emphasizes that resolving the Ukraine conflict requires careful negotiation to avoid future hostilities, drawing on historical peace settlement lessons.
Deep dives
Impact of Trump's Spat with Zelensky
The tensions between President Trump and Ukrainian President Zelensky escalate as Trump publicly labels Zelensky a dictator after excluding him from negotiation talks with Russia. This situation raises concerns among European leaders, who are horrified by Trump's rhetoric. The lack of major dissent from within the Republican party indicates a strong alignment with Trump's narrative, despite most Americans supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression. The situation reflects not only the fluctuating dynamics of international negotiations but also the intricacies of domestic political reactions in the United States.
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