Donald Trump’s approach to Russia has taken a striking turn — and it’s raising eyebrows around the world. For years, Trump was known for praising Russian President Vladimir Putin, openly doubting Ukraine’s leadership, and criticizing NATO. But in a recent interview, the former president expressed “disappointment” with Putin and announced plans to send weapons to Ukraine — a move that seems to contradict much of his earlier stance.
Speaking to the BBC, Trump didn’t hide his change in tone. When asked directly whether he still trusted Putin, Trump replied that he trusts “almost nobody,” adding that while he’s not “done” with the Russian leader, he is far from pleased with him. It’s a significant shift, especially considering how often Trump had previously praised Putin’s leadership style, even going so far as to call him a “genius” during the early days of the Ukraine invasion.
Just hours before that interview, Trump unveiled a new strategy toward the Russia-Ukraine conflict. He announced he would approve sending weapons to Ukraine — a dramatic pivot from his earlier position where he had questioned the need to support Kyiv at all. Not only that, he warned that if Russia doesn’t agree to a ceasefire within 50 days, his administration would hit Moscow with massive tariffs.
So, what’s behind this U-turn?
One explanation could be political calculation. Trump is deep into his second run for the presidency and knows that public sentiment in the U.S. has evolved. While Americans remain wary of extended foreign wars, there is still strong bipartisan support for Ukraine, especially when it comes to opposing Russian aggression. By appearing tough on Putin and supportive of Ukraine, Trump might be trying to reshape his image into that of a strategic dealmaker rather than a Putin sympathizer.
Another factor may be global pressure. With NATO allies watching closely and criticism mounting over his previous comments about weakening the alliance, Trump may be attempting to reassure Western partners — without backing away from his core message that the U.S. shouldn't carry the financial burden of NATO alone. His comments about arming Ukraine could be an attempt to strike that balance: showing strength against Russia, but on his own terms.
It’s also possible that Trump’s personal view of Putin has changed. While he once admired the Russian leader’s strongman image, the prolonged war, global condemnation of Russia’s actions, and possible war crimes might have shifted Trump’s perception. His disappointment could stem from what he sees as a failed opportunity — a leader who, in Trump’s eyes, overplayed his hand and brought global backlash.
Whatever the reasons, Trump’s new posture on Russia is clear: he’s no longer standing as closely with Putin as he once did. Whether this is a genuine shift in policy or a calculated political move remains to be seen. But for now, Trump is sending a message — to voters, to allies, and to Moscow — that things have changed.
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