Why Does Trump Support Russia and Not Ukraine?

The recent geopolitical tensions between Russia and Ukraine have led many to question Donald Trump's actions and statements regarding these nations. Why, despite his public statements in support of nationalism and alliances, does he continue to espouse warmer sentiments towards Russia? This piece aims to explore the underlying motivations, including both financial and personal factors, that contribute to Trump's apparent support of Russia, while the annexation of Crimea and ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Financial Interests and Debt

First and foremost, Donald Trump’s financial interests are deeply intertwined with Russia. Long before his presidency, Trump’s business dealings were heavily influenced by Russian-controlled banking interests, leading to significant debt and financial troubles.

Tracing back to his early business ventures, Trump’s finances were a series of failed and failed-to-start projects. After effectively cutting off his older brother’s family from the family business, Trump inherited a vast collection of rental properties. However, his business acumen was questionable at best. He excelled in conning people, not in creating sustainable business models. Shell companies, vacancies, and the exploitation of employees are some of the tactics he utilized. By falsely declaring projects as completed and reneging on payments, he systematically bankrupted multiple companies, leaving creditors and workers unpaid. The banks caught on, cutting off his access to capital for both personal and business use. It was during this tumultuous period that Russian banks stepped in, offering loans at steep interest and on restrictive terms, essentially trapping Trump in a cycle of debt.

Living Above His Means

Trump's financial predicament is famously characterized by his lifestyle choices. Despite living like a modern rich man on borrowed money, his substance was primarily leveraged against his properties. This means his only source of income was derived from the rental income or the sale of assets, which were far from stable. As a result, he was forced to seek more debt, leading to a growing debt load.

The situation did not improve under Trump’s presidency. The annexation of Crimea and the ongoing war in Ukraine have not significantly altered his financial stance towards Russia. Trump’s personal interests in maintaining a relationship with Russian banks and Putin have weighed heavily on his diplomatic stances.

Political and Personal Connections

Politically, Trump has aligned himself with authoritarian leaders in the belief that they hold power similar to his own. Vladimir Putin, the Russian president, sees Trump as a willing and able ally in reversing Cold War-era tensions and expanding Russia's influence. Putin's personal ambition and desire for territorial expansion align with Trump's own political strategies and interests.

On a personal level, there is a deep admiration and envy between Trump and Putin. Both leaders share a controversial and assertive political style. Putin sees a kindred spirit in Trump, while Trump views Putin as a role model for his aggressive and often controversial policies. This personal bond further strengthens their diplomatic and business relationship. Trump's vulnerability to personal flattery and fear of financial repercussions has led him to support Putin's interests, knowing that any significant backlash could lead to a loss of financial support from Russia.

Conclusion: The Complexities of Influence

Donald Trump's support of Russia and not Ukraine is not solely driven by a personal emotional attachment or a mental illness. Instead, it is a complex interplay of personal indebtedness, economic interests, and political connections. Trump's financial entanglements with Russian-controlled banking interests have left him in a precarious position, where maintaining a relationship with Russia is necessary to avoid bankruptcy or economic ruin. This alliance is further cemented by a personal admiration for Putin and a political strategy that aligns with Putin's own goals.

The geopolitical landscape is influenced by these intricate personal and financial factors, making it crucial for both domestic and international audiences to understand the motivations behind Trump's diplomatic actions.