Trump's presidency has not benefited Putin or Russia despite expectations
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/by/hanna-notte. "Opinion | No, Trump Isn’t Good for Putin - The New York Times." February 23, 2026. www.nytimes.com
The Gist
The author argues that despite Putin's hopes, Trump's presidency hasn't helped Russia at all. Instead of treating Putin as an equal partner, Trump has ignored Russian interests, interfered in areas Russia considers important, and maintained an America-first approach that treats Russia as subordinate.
Conclusion
Contrary to expectations, Trump's presidency has not been good for Putin or Russia, as Trump has largely ignored Russian interests and maintained an America-first approach that subordinates rather than elevates Russia
Premises
- Trump has dismissed Putin's geopolitical aspirations by rebuffing mediation offers and excluding Russia from key diplomatic initiatives in the Middle East
- Trump has actively interfered in Russia's traditional spheres of influence, including the Caucasus, Venezuela, and other regions Russia considers its backyard
- Trump has imposed economic sanctions on Russian oil companies, seized Russian assets, and pressured other countries to reduce Russian trade
- Trump has ignored Russian proposals on arms control and elevated China over Russia in strategic discussions
- Trump's 'Board of Peace' initiative positions Russia as a subordinate rather than an equal partner
- Trump's foreign policy disruptions, while potentially creating opportunities, are guided by 'Trump First' rather than cooperation with Russia
- Russia remains constrained by its costly war in Ukraine, which Trump has not resolved in Russia's favor
Assumptions
- Putin invaded Ukraine partly to gain respect and force the US to treat Russia as an equal power
- Putin expected Trump's return would lead to normalized US-Russia relations and cooperation
- Russia seeks recognition as a great power with spheres of influence rather than subordinate status
- Trump's personality traits (solipsism, need for attention) prevent him from treating other leaders as equals
- Economic and diplomatic cooperation requires mutual respect and recognition of interests