A Reporter Finally Asks Trump: Didn’t Putin Start This War?

Podcast: Daily Updates on Russian Invasion of Ukraine · Professor Gerdes

Opublikowano: 2026-10-17

I examine Donald Trump’s response when asked directly whether Vladimir Putin started Russia’s war against Ukraine—and why his refusal to give a clear answer matters. My focus is not whether ending the war is desirable; it is whether Washington can pursue a durable settlement while directing public pressure at Volodymyr Zelensky and appearing to minimize the Kremlin’s responsibility for the invasion. I also look at conflicting Kremlin statements on possible Russian diesel shipments, Moscow’s push for long-term gas contracts, and claims that Russia violated an energy ceasefire. I assess Tru...