Trump Describes Putin as "Very Smart" Amid Hope for a Ukraine Deal

 

# Trump Describes Putin as "Very Smart" Amid Hope for a Ukraine Deal

In a series of notable remarks amid renewed diplomatic engagement, former U.S. President Donald Trump described Russian President Vladimir Putin as "very smart and very cunning." During a press conference on Wednesday, Trump expressed his optimism about reaching a deal concerning Ukraine, a topic that has dominated international headlines in recent months.

### Key Remarks on Putin and a Potential Deal

Trump stated, "He is a very smart and cunning man," emphasizing his respect for Putin’s strategic acumen. Reflecting on their past conversations, Trump recalled that, "When I was elected, I spoke with him, and I believe that we will have a deal." These remarks come at a time when tensions in Eastern Europe continue to influence global geopolitics, with many watching closely to see if this new dialogue will lead to substantive changes in the conflict in Ukraine.

### Security Guarantees and Economic Proposals

Adding another layer to his vision for the future, Trump reiterated that the United States would not provide security guarantees for Ukraine, while also proposing to reclaim the $350 billion that had been expended during previous U.S. involvement in the region. "I can’t guarantee that—it’s possible there will be surprises in the deals—but I believe there will be an agreement," he explained. This statement signals a shift in U.S. policy priorities, as Trump envisions a settlement that might reshape long-standing military and financial commitments.

### Renewed Diplomatic Engagement

In a significant development, Trump noted that he had conducted a telephone call with Putin on February 12—marking the first such communication between the two leaders in years. This call has paved the way for subsequent negotiations between U.S. and Russian delegations in Saudi Arabia. These discussions focused on reaching a settlement in Ukraine and normalizing bilateral relations between the two nations, highlighting the potential for a new era of dialogue in a region long marred by conflict.

### Implications for U.S.-Russia Relations and Ukraine

Trump’s comments underscore his continuing influence on U.S. foreign policy debates, even after leaving office. By praising Putin’s intellect and hinting at a possible agreement on Ukraine, Trump is positioning himself as a mediator capable of navigating complex international challenges. However, critics argue that such remarks may embolden Russian hardliners and complicate efforts by allies to secure guarantees for Ukraine’s security.

The proposed approach—eschewing U.S. security guarantees while seeking to recover significant financial resources—reflects Trump’s broader agenda of reducing American commitments abroad and rebalancing economic expenditures. Whether this strategy will lead to a durable settlement in Ukraine remains uncertain, but it has undoubtedly stirred debate among policymakers and international observers alike.

### Conclusion

Former President Trump’s recent remarks characterizing Putin as "very smart" and his optimistic outlook on a Ukraine deal illustrate a bold reimagining of U.S.-Russia relations. With a historic phone call reestablishing direct communication between the two leaders and follow-up negotiations underway in Saudi Arabia, the coming months could see significant shifts in the geopolitical landscape. As Trump continues to champion his vision for a restructured approach to international diplomacy, the world watches closely to determine whether these high-stakes discussions will translate into lasting peace and economic recalibration in the region.

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This article provides a comprehensive look at Trump's recent comments, his assessment of Putin, and the broader implications for a potential agreement on Ukraine.

https://www.nezglo.com//jim-jordan-details-house-gop-strategy.