politico.eu
Kremlin Shifts Stance, Embraces Trump's Approach to Ukraine
In 2020, Russian media dramatically shifted its portrayal of the West, embracing President Trump's engagement with Russia as validation of its own aggressive stance toward Ukraine, aiming for territorial gains and President Zelenskyy's removal, reflecting a deep-seated belief in the inevitability of conflict with the West.
- How does the Kremlin's historical narrative of conflict with the West influence its current approach toward Ukraine and the U.S.?
- The shift in Russian media reflects a change in Kremlin strategy, using Trump's actions to legitimize its own aggressive stance toward Ukraine. This strategy frames the U.S. and Russia as dominant forces, marginalizing Europe and portraying Ukraine as a client state. The Kremlin's goal is tactical gains, not lasting peace, rooted in a historical narrative of conflict with the West.
- What are the long-term implications of the Kremlin's strategy, considering its belief in the impossibility of lasting peace with the West?
- The Kremlin's approach, while seemingly opportunistic, reveals a deep-seated belief in the inevitability of conflict with the West. This worldview, characterized by 'ressentiment,' shapes Russia's foreign policy, making genuine peace unlikely. The expectation is for periodic truces, not lasting agreements, with the U.S. relationship central to Russia's self-definition.
- What immediate implications did President Trump's approach toward Russia and Ukraine have on Russian media's coverage and the Kremlin's strategy?
- In 2020, President Trump's engagement with Russia, particularly regarding Ukraine, prompted a significant shift in Russian media's portrayal of the West, abandoning years of anti-Western rhetoric. This pivot is because Trump's approach aligns with the Kremlin's worldview, viewing the U.S. and Russia as powerful actors who will determine Ukraine's fate. The Kremlin expects territorial gains in Ukraine and the removal of President Zelenskyy as a result.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the situation from a predominantly Russian perspective, emphasizing the Kremlin's interpretation of events and downplaying alternative viewpoints. The headline "Putin's triumph" in Kommersant, cited in the text, exemplifies this framing bias. The description of Trump as a "powerful American godfather" and Putin as a "crime baron" contributes to this skewed portrayal of international relations. The constant use of words like "triumph" subtly sways reader perception in favor of the Russian interpretation.
Language Bias
The article uses loaded language such as "crime baron" to describe Putin, and "treacherous, decadent West." The description of the deal as a "primitive 19th-century-like narrative" carries a negative connotation. These terms are not balanced by other descriptions. More neutral alternatives could be used, such as "powerful political leader", "Western nations", and "historical approach.
Bias by Omission
The analysis focuses heavily on the Kremlin's perspective and interpretation of events, potentially omitting alternative viewpoints from Ukrainian officials, Western leaders, or other international actors. The article doesn't delve into the potential consequences or criticisms of a deal that might cede Ukrainian territory. While acknowledging limitations of space, a more balanced presentation would strengthen the analysis.
False Dichotomy
The narrative presents a false dichotomy by framing the situation as a simplistic choice between a deal favorable to Russia and perpetual conflict with the West. The article overlooks the possibility of negotiated settlements that don't involve territorial concessions or the complete removal of Zelenskyy. The complexity of potential outcomes is underrepresented.
Gender Bias
The analysis doesn't exhibit significant gender bias. The article focuses primarily on political actors and geopolitical dynamics, with gender playing a relatively minor role in the narrative.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article describes a scenario where Russia seeks territorial gains in Ukraine through negotiations with the US, undermining international law and peaceful conflict resolution. This directly contradicts the principles of peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, justice, and strong institutions, as promoted by SDG 16.