Vladimir Solovyov explains why he still likes Trump

(MOSCOW) – Russian state television has presented a mixed but broadly favourable assessment of United States President Donald Trump, highlighting divisions within American politics while expressing interest in his potential impact on Western alliances.

During a broadcast of the programme Sunday Evening With Vladimir Solovyov, host Vladimir Solovyov and guests including Mosfilm director Karen Shakhnazarov and State Duma member Semyon Bagdasarov discussed current geopolitical tensions, including relations with Iran and the United States.

The discussion opened with criticism of American diplomatic credibility, referencing talks involving Iran and Pakistan. Participants argued that mistrust towards the United States stems from past actions, suggesting that negotiations are sometimes viewed as a means of identifying and targeting political actors rather than resolving disputes.

Commentators described the current global situation as uncertain, with one participant likening ongoing conflicts to a “Schrödinger’s war”, simultaneously present and unclear, while noting that casualties continue despite ambiguity in official narratives.

The panel also reflected on internal debates within the United States, citing past criticisms of Donald Trump by figures now associated with his political circle. Statements previously made by American politicians were quoted extensively, including allegations that Trump lacked competence on key issues, engaged in excessive rhetoric, and was unfit for high office.

References were made to criticism of Trump’s stance on military service, constitutional limits on war powers, and his approach to leadership. Some former critics were noted to have shifted their positions, highlighting the evolving nature of political alliances in the United States.

Discussion extended to broader strategic concerns, including tensions involving Iran and Israel. Participants suggested that recent developments have affected perceptions of American power, with some describing the situation as a significant miscalculation.

Concerns were also raised about the risk of escalation, including the possibility of nuclear confrontation, although no definitive conclusions were drawn. The discussion highlighted uncertainty surrounding decision making within the current US political environment.

Despite criticism, some participants expressed support for Trump, arguing that his approach could weaken established Western alliances. In particular, NATO was identified as an area where policy changes could have significant implications.