Several of President-elect Donald Trump’s appointments are noted for their pro-Russian sympathies, and President-elect Trump has himself expresses a level of admiration for Vladimir Putin.
Should the U.S. work at creating a bond with Russia/Putin? Might we be more influential as friends than as adversaries?
Adding the discussion, you might comment on “should the US become less involved with NATO and the EU?”
Besides asking you to opine about what SHOULD happen, you can also comment on what you think WILL happen.
These are changing times, are they not?
Poll Results
Should the U.S. work toward becoming buddies with Russia/Putin?
Yes, the U.S. should make great efforts to endear itself to Russia/Putin. Votes: 2
Yes, but we should only make moderate efforts. Votes: 1
Yes, but moderately, and with teeth. Votes: 8
Unsure. Votes: 1
No, although if things improve there we should reconsider. Votes: 3
No, any “improvements” would be inauthentic and token anyway. Votes: 2
No way. Votes: 2
Only if a leader besides Putin comes into power. Votes: 1
Discussion
NewI voted the first category.
I voted the first category. As long as we can do so without generating “entangling alliances” I would think it would be a good thing. I almost selected door number two because I wasn’t quite sure what “great efforts” meant but, barring corruption of some kind, I think it could be mutually beneficial.
New"Buddies?" No
Depends on what’s meant by buddies. I can’t really think of a definition that doesn’t include entangling alliances. The aim should be “optimal distance,” avoiding hostility and provocation when possible but seeking “friendly domination.” Putin is a thug and Putin’s Russia is not our friend.
Views expressed are always my own and not my employer's, my church's, my family's, my neighbors', or my pets'. The house plants have authorized me to speak for them, however, and they always agree with me.
NewPutin's letter to Trump
https://twitter.com/ABCPolitics/status/812477834115555328
Twitter
Jim's Doctrinal Statement