Letters from an American November 30, 2025
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Dec 1, 2025 The discussion kicks off with an intriguing report on a budding U.S.-Russia economic plan benefiting select businessmen. Concern grows as a representative criticizes the White House's moral stance toward Putin. A chilling comparison emerges between the Trump administration and Putin's kleptocracy. The implications of conflicts of interest in AI and crypto raise eyebrows, while the shadow of the Trump family's foreign business ties looms large. Anger at a privileged elite, nicknamed the 'Epstein class,' highlights shifting political tides, echoing historical calls for change.
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Russian-Led Peace Plan Benefits Elites
- The Wall Street Journal revealed a Trump administration plan centered on Russian-led economic cooperation with Ukraine and shared projects benefiting favored businessmen.
- Heather Cox Richardson links this plan to a foreign policy shaped by private gain rather than moral clarity.
Moral Clarity Vs. Profit Motives
- Representative Don Bacon criticized the White House for lacking moral clarity on Putin and Russia while aides seek business deals with Russian elites.
- Richardson frames this as foreign policy prioritized for profit over principle.
Kleptocracy As A Governance Strategy
- Richardson argues the Trump administration is establishing a kleptocracy that uses government to enrich ruling elites and shield them from law.
- She compares this system directly to Vladimir Putin's model in Russia.