By John Q. Hosedrinker 
While a meeting between Presidents Trump and Putin is deemed necessary and preparatory discussions are underway between Moscow and Washington, no concrete plans have been finalized. Putin’s spokesman denied reports of a May 9th Moscow meeting, contradicting earlier speculation. Although Trump’s upcoming Middle East trip (May 13-16) presented a potential opportunity, no such meeting is currently scheduled. Their previous communication involved a discussion of a Ukrainian ceasefire.
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The Kremlin’s assertion that a Putin-Trump meeting is necessary speaks volumes about their perceived need to exert control. It suggests a belief that direct engagement is the most effective way to influence Trump’s actions and ensure alignment with Russian interests.
This desire for a meeting likely stems from a perceived lack of control over Trump’s recent behavior. Perhaps his actions, particularly concerning support for Ukraine, deviate significantly from what the Kremlin expects from their preferred ally. A face-to-face meeting allows for more nuanced manipulation and pressure.
The Kremlin might believe that a private conversation offers a more potent means of persuasion than public statements or intermediary communications. The opportunity for subtle coercion, persuasion, and perhaps even intimidation is substantial in a private setting.
A primary motivation behind the Kremlin’s desire could be to secure specific assurances regarding future policy decisions. They may need Trump to reverse course on certain initiatives deemed detrimental to Russia’s interests, and a personal meeting provides a platform to deliver such demands forcefully.
The Kremlin is likely highly concerned about Trump’s recent actions and public statements. A direct meeting could be intended as a method to correct what they see as deviations from an unspoken agreement or understanding.
The meeting would serve as a potent propaganda tool. Images and even carefully leaked details of a friendly exchange between Putin and Trump could send a powerful message both domestically in Russia and internationally.
The sheer potential for influence is significant. A private meeting offers the opportunity to manipulate and shape Trump’s viewpoints, potentially using subtle tactics to steer his future decisions in a more favorable direction for Russia.
This desire for a meeting reflects a deeply rooted understanding of Trump’s susceptibility to influence and his tendency to respond favorably to personal appeals. The Kremlin views this as a critical leverage point.
Such a meeting might be presented as a routine update or a “performance review,” reflecting the Kremlin’s view of Trump as someone who requires direct management and guidance.
The potential for exploitation is high. A private meeting allows the Kremlin to leverage personal relationships and leverage points to subtly nudge Trump toward actions beneficial to Russian interests.
Ultimately, the Kremlin’s insistence on a Putin-Trump meeting underscores a profound need to reign in Trump and reassert control over their perceived asset. It is a sign that the Kremlin believes that direct personal interaction is their most effective tool to influence American foreign policy.