President Trump conveyed disappointment in Russian President Putin during a BBC interview, asserting he is "not done" with him. He announced plans for military aid to Ukraine and affirmed NATO's relevance, showcasing a shift from past criticisms.
Trump Expresses Disappointment in Putin While Reinforcing NATO Commitment
Trump Expresses Disappointment in Putin While Reinforcing NATO Commitment
In a recent interview, President Trump reveals mixed feelings about Vladimir Putin amidst escalating tensions over Ukraine and emphasizes NATO's importance.
In an exclusive interview with the BBC, President Donald Trump shared his thoughts on Russian President Vladimir Putin, expressing disappointment in his actions while simultaneously stating he is "not done" with him. The conversation comes on the heels of an escalation in the Ukraine conflict, as Trump announced intentions to send military weapons to Ukraine and indicated severe tariffs on Russia if a ceasefire is not achieved within 50 days.
During the 20-minute phone call, Trump was questioned about his trust in Putin. He responded candidly, saying, "I trust almost no one," reflecting skepticism regarding international relations. Trump's remarks followed discussions with NATO chief Mark Rutte at the White House, highlighting a shift in his view of the North Atlantic alliance, which he previously referred to as "obsolete." He acknowledged that NATO is "becoming the opposite of that," as member countries are more responsible for their financial contributions to the alliance.
Throughout the interview, Trump reminisced about the four times he believed a deal with Russia was within reach. However, he illustrated the challenges of negotiating with Putin, noting, "I'll say: 'That's good, I'll think we're close to getting it done,' and then he'll knock down a building in Kyiv." This remark underscores the complexities of diplomacy in the current geopolitical climate.
Additionally, Trump reflected on his experience surviving an assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. He suggested that contemplating its impact on him could be "life-changing" but preferred not to dwell on it too much.
Turning to matters related to the United Kingdom, Trump expressed his admiration for the country and its monarchy. He is looking forward to his unprecedented second state visit to the UK scheduled for September, where he hopes to engage with King Charles III, whom he described as a "great gentleman."
In summary, President Trump’s recent comments reveal a nuanced stance toward Russia amidst ongoing conflict in Ukraine while reaffirming his commitment to NATO’s relevance and expressing his anticipation of future diplomatic engagements.
