Did US President-elect Donald Trump just telephone Mr. Vladimir Putin, the Russian leader, to discuss an end to the war in Ukraine?
Yes, if you believe US sources, including those available in The Washington Post. But no if you listen to what the Russian authorities are saying. "Telephone call? What telephone call?" asked a surprised Mr. Dmitry Peskov, President Putin's chief spokesman.
This "did-he-didn't-he" episode perfectly illustrates the high state of nervousness and sheer confusion that has gripped Europe since Trump won the US election.
It's not that the Europeans were surprised by Trump's electoral success; many governments predicted it. Instead, Trump's electoral promise to end the war in Ukraine—Europe's most extensive and bloodiest conflict since World War II—carries with it the risk of tearing up all the continent's security arrangements without the US President-elect even appearing to realize it.
And—galling still for the Europeans—most of the serious decisions about their future could be taken by Trump and his closest personal advisers well before "The Donald" steps back into the White House on Jan. 20, 2025. A more frustrating and more dangerous prospect for Europe can hardly be envisaged.
Unsurprisingly, Europe frets about every Trump phone call, whether imaginary or real.
UKRAINE IN TRUMP'S EYES
Although more by accident than design, Ukraine has haunted Trump's political career. Russia's initial invasion of Ukraine took place in 2014, well before Trump embarked on his first presidential term. But because he was accused of winning the 2016 US election with the help of Russia's intelligence services, Trump initially believed that he could dispel such accusations by standing up to Russia in Ukraine. So, he reversed a ban imposed by Mr. Barack Obama, his predecessor, and authorized the first substantial delivery of US weapons to Ukraine.
Esta historia es de la edición November 13, 2024 de The Straits Times.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor ? Conectar
Esta historia es de la edición November 13, 2024 de The Straits Times.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor? Conectar
British novelist David Lodge was twice shortlisted for Booker Prize
British novelist David Lodge, who was shortlisted for the Booker Prize twice, has died at the age of 89, his publisher said on Jan 3.
A CITY FOR BABIES
After a successful experiment, The City of Babies Lab has opened a new permanent space dedicated to children aged from birth to 23 months.
Scientist Names 16 New Spider Species After Jay Chou's Songs
A Chinese scientist has named 16 new spider species after songs by popular Mandopop musician Jay Chou.
Actress JJ Jia Xiaochen upset with hubby for not remembering wedding anniversary
Chinese actress JJ Jia Xiaochen has grumbled about her husband, Hong Kong action star Louis Fan, on social media again.
Actress Chen Liping leaves Mediacorp after 40 years
Actress Chen Liping, a household name in the local entertainment industry, has left broadcaster Mediacorp after 40 years.
Raising four cats costly, but gives Rui En four times the joy
In this new series, The Straits Times speaks to pet-owning personalities about the trials and delights of raising their fur kids
Vet Talk Check that your pet is eating safely during the festive season
Pet ownership is on the rise in Singapore, with many families treating their furry companions as one of their own.
Learning to embrace change positively
On the last evening of our recent family holiday, my three children were having a boisterous conversation in the bedroom of the apartment we were staying in.
STRONGER, TOGETHER
Good parent-teacher relationships can boost a child's confidence and holistic development
Roaring Off To A-League Adventure
Tan makes Brisbane debut as sub in loss to Canberra on her return from knee surgery
