US President Donald Trump’s talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin have sparked praise from his right-wing media allies, who see the negotiations as a “breath of fresh air” and a step towards peace. In contrast, foreign policy experts are wary of the move, citing concerns over potential security risks and undermining US alliances.
The Trump administration has agreed to try negotiating a peace settlement for Ukraine with Russia, without including Ukraine in the talks. Many right-wing media figures have welcomed this development, including Kari Lake, Charlie Kirk, and Jack Posobiec, who see it as an opportunity to bring about peace on the planet.
These voices, often critical of US strategy on Russia’s war in Ukraine, now serve as a supportive chorus for President Trump’s approach. They argue that direct engagement with Russian leadership is more effective than traditional methods and suggest that US aid to Ukraine is wasteful and detrimental to national interests.
Notably, several prominent figures who were once hawkish on Russia have shifted their stance under President Trump. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, a proponent of Ukraine in the past, has now aligned himself with this view.
President Trump campaigned on ending the war in Ukraine and has pushed it to the top of his agenda since taking office. Recent phone calls with Putin have further highlighted this shift. Right-wing media figures like Tucker Carlson have also voiced support for the talks, citing a desire to change the Western mindset on Russia.
While some experts, including Fox News’s Brit Hume, caution that these talks may be premature and risk undermining trans-Atlantic alliances, others believe that President Trump’s approach could ultimately lead to peace. The situation remains fluid as diplomatic efforts unfold.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/18/business/media/trump-russia-right-wing-media.html