Trump’s Post-Summit Approach Draws International Criticism as Putin Pursues Ukraine Goals
WASHINGTON – Following his recent summit with Vladimir Putin,former President Donald Trump’s foreign policy approach is facing mounting criticism from allies and mockery from Moscow,as Russia continues too advance its objectives in Ukraine. Observers across the political spectrum are questioning Trump’s influence on the international stage, with concerns growing that his rhetoric is not deterring Putin’s aggression and may even be emboldening it. The situation raises important questions about the potential for renewed U.S. leadership in addressing global conflicts and the future of the transatlantic alliance.
The shift in perception comes as Putin signals no intention of altering his course in Ukraine, despite Trump’s public statements. This disconnect has prompted accusations that Trump is either unwilling or unable to effectively pressure Putin, leading to a sense of disillusionment among key allies and a dismissive attitude within the Kremlin. The implications extend beyond Ukraine, perhaps impacting U.S. credibility and its ability to forge a united front against authoritarian regimes.
Critics have begun to characterize Trump’s current stance as a retreat from active foreign policy engagement. The Washington Post described it as “declaring” “the bystander phase of the Trump presidency.” A Wall Street Journal headline stated Trump is “sidelining himself” in foreign policy. New York Times columnist Thomas L. Friedman suggested the White House should be renamed “Waffle House” (or Taco Bell?) to reflect the perceived lack of decisive action.
The international response is equally pointed. Poland’s deputy prime minister, Radoslaw Sikorski, asserted in a video last week that Putin is “mocking” Trump’s peace talk through continued hostilities. In moscow, politicians and state media are celebrating Putin’s perceived success at the summit. When Trump told “Fox & Friends” on Friday that his patience with Russia is “running out fast,” Russian State Duma leader alexei Zhuravlyov characterized it as Trump’s “normal state” – “either waiting to talk to Putin, talking to Putin or explaining how well he talked to Putin.” Pundit Mikhail Rostovsky likened Trump’s threats to a recurring “Groundhog Day.”
Rostovsky added, “The Kremlin believes that Russia is slowly but surely achieving its goals in Ukraine,” and “therefore Moscow does not intend to stop there.” Putin himself has echoed this sentiment, a message that, according to observers, Trump does not appear to acknowledge or heed.
Jackie Calmes: @jackiecalmes