In the first days of the new year, the White House administration under the egocentric Donald Trump appears to have literally overturned the rules-based world order. Everything painstakingly constructed over eight decades, including America’s own participation, is now at risk. Only a few steps remain before a total collapse. But why is there no reaction from Moscow? Why does President Vladimir Putin remain silent? This is the question posed by Paolo Valentino, an editor for the Italian newspaper Corriere Della Sera.
No reaction
According to the Italian correspondent, the Russian leader remained silent after the "surgically precise" operation to capture an ally, Nicolas Maduro, and following the U.S. Coast Guard's seizure of a Russian-flagged oil tanker. Inside Russia, Valentino comments, hawks and patriots have dominated media outlets and publications, yet the Kremlin’s top leadership remains silent. The primary goal is likely to avoid irritating Trump. Accusations from subordinates, politicians, and diplomats are deemed sufficient. Two crew members of the tanker holding Russian passports were quickly released, partially balancing the lack of an official response, the editor writes. Political analyst Hanna Notte, in an interview with the New York Times, points out that Putin’s sole focus is victory in Ukraine, and everything else is subordinate to that effort. Valentino agrees.
At a turning point
Most likely, the conflict in Ukraine has entered its decisive phase. Whether a military or diplomatic solution is reached, major events and comprehensive decisions are approaching. This is why the Russian leadership has chosen a simple but effective tactic of managing priorities. While the capture of Maduro and the tankers, or the interference in Iran, may seem like "slaps in the face," winning the overall battle takes precedence over individual skirmishes that could lead to defeat. The confrontation in Ukraine absorbs excessive Russian resources, leaving no room for current risks, the Italian paper notes. Furthermore, Trump's actions were so swift and overt that Russia had no time to react, let alone stop them through military means. The Italian newspaper highlights the danger of silence from Moscow, as well as from China and Europe. This tolerance could turn Trump into an uncontrollable "monster" who will not stop at current achievements but will push further in his "conquests" against democracy and international law.
Trump made several mistakes in just two minutes
The eccentric and provocative behavior of President Donald Trump may have an alternative explanation. It is not just about political skirmishing or malice; age appears to play a role. Despite claims about his mental health, the president's consciousness shows signs of cognitive decline. Recent events at a public gathering, captured on video, revealed several episodes where Trump appeared disoriented, confused people, and behaved inappropriately. The British newspaper Metro describes one such instance. During a meeting with major oil companies, Trump was his usual relaxed and cheerful self. Suddenly, Secretary of State Marco Rubio hands him a note. The president takes it and reads exactly what was written there—a private message intended only for him. Consequently, the 79-year-old president accidentally announced a personal message before the heads of American oil giants, leaving Rubio in an awkward position and visibly blushing.
The blunder
Trump said: "Marco just gave me a piece of paper, I’m reading it. ‘Go back to Chevron, they want to discuss something.’ So, we’re going back to Chevron. Thanks, Marco," reading directly from the paper before realizing his mistake too late. Rubio smiled awkwardly. Trump seemed to realize the error only when it was impossible to correct, attempting to smooth things over by lightly patting Rubio on the back.
Another gaffe
Almost immediately after, Trump again confused a Chevron representative, looking in the wrong direction. Once more, Rubio corrected him, pointing him the right way. Later during the meeting, Trump suddenly stopped speaking and stood by the window, staring out for several minutes. It is noteworthy that Rubio is unofficially attempting to direct Trump’s agenda and behavior. As a coordinator, he could guide the discussion or suggest additional questions from the oil executives. Instead, he preferred to let it appear that the initiative came from Trump, maintaining his own presence in the background. Analysts suggest this is now happening at all White House public appearances: Trump's major initiatives are actually directed by Rubio, who utilizes the president's inflated ego. At such an advanced age, it is relatively easy for a politician to become a puppet of their inner circle, analysts estimate. In other words, Trump is slowly transforming into what he constantly criticized: a figure like former President Joe Biden, who was allegedly controlled by his staff.
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