Is A Trump Presidency Really a Big Win for Putin?

Among Donald Trump’s consistent positions during the US presidential campaign was a respect for Russian President Vladimir Putin and a desire to restore US ties with a Cold War adversary. Reid Standish writes in Foreign Policy that Putin celebrated Trump’s win because it represents a chance for him to “restore Russia’s global status and reopen ties with the West.” Trump has not laid out clear plans to support Putin’s endeavors – a push for global prominence, support of Assad in Syria or encroachment into Ukraine – but Standish argues that Putin will capitalize on the political turmoil and instability. Trump has been wildly unpredictable and, if Putin pushes too hard, may turn against Russia. Regardless, Putin must appreciate a new face in Washington after Obama’s criticism of Russia’s actions in Syria and Russia. – YaleGlobal