The Guardian review of historian Lawrence Freedman’s book *Betrayal* has sparked a flurry of online debate, with many readers dismissing the claim that Donald Trump is a Russian asset as “duh.” The piece revisits Trump’s long‑standing, controversial relationship with Vladimir Putin, a mystery that has dominated international politics for years. Freedman, who previously explored Moscow’s alleged collusion with Trump in *Collusion*, argues that the former president’s actions during both terms align closely with Kremlin interests, despite his denials. The discussion highlights how Trump’s conduct toward Russia has remained as perplexing and unpredictable as it was during his first term.
Whether or not US president fits the definition of a Russian asset, his actions align closely with the Kremlin’s interests• Don’t get This Is Europe delivered to your inbox? Sign up hereCould Donald Trump be a Russian asset? The headline on a review in the Guardian of my new book Betrayal has provoked heated international debate. Written by the historian Lawrence Freedman, the piece generated thousands of comments from across Europe and beyond on social media. Many people responded with a single word: “Duh!”Trump’s relationship with Vladimir Putin is the biggest mystery in international politics. In 2017 I wrote a book called Collusion, which set out Moscow’s operation to support and cultivate Trump, going back decades. The US president, of course, denies links with Russia. But in his second term, his behaviour towards Putin has been as weird and perplexing as during his first. Continue reading...
