Donald Trump, the former US president, has been the subject of extensive analysis regarding his relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin. In a revealing new book titled "At War With Ourselves: My Tour of Duty in the Trump White House," former national security adviser General Herbert Raymond McMaster discusses the dynamics of Trump's interactions with Putin, suggesting that the Russian leader exploited Trump's vulnerabilities through flattery and manipulation. McMaster describes Putin's influence as almost hypnotic, asserting that Trump often dismissed critical viewpoints about Russia from his own advisors. This manipulation, according to McMaster, not only affected Trump's foreign policy decisions but also led to his dismissal of those who advocated for a tougher stance against Moscow.
The book details how Trump's admiration for strong leaders, including Putin, shaped his presidency and foreign relations. McMaster emphasizes that Putin's praise for Trump was a calculated strategy to undermine Trump's advisors and promote a friendlier U.S.-Russia relationship. Notably, during key moments, such as the poisoning of Sergei Skripal, Trump's reactions often aligned with Putin's narrative, raising concerns about his judgment and the implications for U.S. foreign policy. McMaster's account highlights the complexities of Trump's presidency and the significant impact of his relationship with Putin on international relations.
- In his memoir, McMaster provides a candid look at the inner workings of the Trump White House, revealing how Trump's obsession with the Mueller report and Russian interference in the 2016 election complicated discussions about Russia. He recalls instances where Trump's eagerness to maintain a positive relationship with Putin led to conflicting messages from U.S. foreign policy experts. The dynamics described in the book shed light on the challenges faced by advisors in trying to steer Trump towards a more traditional approach to foreign policy, particularly regarding Russia's aggressive actions. McMaster's observations raise questions about the future of U.S.-Russia relations and the potential consequences of Trump's approach if he were to return to office. His memoir serves as a critical resource for understanding the complexities of Trump's presidency and the ongoing implications of his foreign policy decisions.
