Trump and Putin Agree Europe is Failing, But Disagree on What Comes Next

A leading expert says the narratives of Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin share a key theme: the decline of Europe. However, their end goals are very different. Marlène Laruelle, a professor at George Washington University, analyzed statements from Trump and his close advisors. She found they often promote the idea of a weakened Europe losing its global power. This argument closely mirrors the narrative long pushed by Russian President Vladimir Putin. But Laruelle notes a critical division. While both leaders see "liberal Europe" as a common enemy, their strategic projects diverge. Putin seeks to undermine European unity and influence. Trump’s camp, however, appears focused on pushing Europe to take more responsibility for its own defense and security.