Judging Freedom Gilbert Doctorow : Trump Through Russian Eyes
Jan 21, 2026
Gilbert Doctorow, a foreign policy analyst specializing in Russo-Western relations, shares intriguing insights on how Russia perceives former President Trump. He discusses the Kremlin's strategic silence on Trump's comments about Greenland and highlights the nuanced views of Russian elites on geopolitical matters. Doctorow explains why Russia sees Trump as a disruptor of NATO and evaluates the implications of his realpolitik approach. With topics ranging from Trump's resilience to the strategic significance of Diego Garcia, the discussion reveals a complex picture of international relations.
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Kremlin Public Caution, Private Conversation
- Russia publicly hedges on Greenland while Moscow's elites discuss it actively behind the scenes.
- Gilbert Doctorow says the Kremlin avoids criticizing Trump openly to prevent provoking him and to maintain leverage.
Moscow Sees Trump's Personal Sincerity
- Russians view Trump as sincere about normalizing relations and were impressed by his intent.
- Doctorow says Moscow gives Trump personal credit despite doubts about his ability to overcome Washington opposition.
Trump As A Wrecking Ball For Western Unity
- Russian commentators believe Trump aims to weaken NATO and the EU from within.
- Doctorow reports Moscow's talking circles largely favor Trump's disruption of Western institutions.