Putin open to Trump's bold defense cuts as Europe arms up
Vladimir Putin signals his willingness to consider Donald Trump's proposal for significant defence spending cuts. In return, he expects comparable actions from the United States. Meanwhile, Europe is increasing its military spending due to the perceived threat from Russia.
Many reports from Russian media or government representatives contain propaganda elements. They are part of the information warfare conducted by the Russian Federation.
US President Donald Trump has proposed talks with Putin and Chinese leader Xi Jinping on a 50% reduction in military budgets.
"I think it's a good idea. The US would cut by 50 percent and we would cut by 50 percent and then China would join if it wanted," said Putin, expressing readiness for discussion.
Europe is arming itself
At the same time, Trump is urging European leaders to increase defence spending. During his visit to Washington, French President Emmanuel Macron agreed that Europe must take greater responsibility for its security. France is considering using its nuclear arsenal to bolster the continent's defence.
Friedrich Merz, leader of the CDU and likely future Chancellor of Germany, warns that the US under Trump's administration has become "indifferent to Europe's fate." At a press conference, he said, "It is clear that we, Europeans, must quickly become capable of acting. "
Changes in US policy towards Ukraine
Moscow-Washington talks on the war in Ukraine have been ongoing for two weeks, marking a significant shift in US policy. This has raised concerns in the West that relations between the superpowers may improve, which Putin could exploit. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was excluded from these talks, and Trump referred to him as a "dictator."
During a meeting with Trump at the White House, Macron suggested that the American president is correct to rekindle discussions with Putin. There is a good reason for President Trump to re-engage in talks with President Putin," Macron said, pointing out changes in the new US administration.
