Lord Ricketts on Trump's 'Amateur' Team and Failed Putin Talks

Inexperienced Diplomatic Team

• 🎯 Lord Ricketts describes Trump's negotiating team as inexperienced and amateur, lacking state department professionals.
• 💡 Key negotiators like Steve Whit are characterized as property tycoons and golfing partners, tasked with solving global issues like Iran, Gaza, and Ukraine.
• ⚠️ The team is seen as operating hour-by-hour, reacting to breaking news rather than following a settled strategy.

Chaotic Diplomacy and Putin's Maneuvers

• 🎢 Diplomacy is described as a roller coaster ride, unlike previous shuttle diplomacy efforts which had a stronger American grip and focus.
• 📉 The current approach is deemed more chaotic and random, leading to less success due to the absence of a professional American negotiating team.
• 🧐 While Putin has been seen as a master diplomat, his recent handling of the Istanbul talks call is viewed as flat-footed, irritating some on the American side.

Trump's Approach to Negotiations

• ⚖️ There's a perceived disproportionate approach by Trump, who seems to believe Zelensky is in a weaker position and can be pushed around, while showing curious respect for Putin.
• ⏳ Trump is focused on achieving quick deals and taking credit, but Putin has repeatedly shown no interest in a swift ceasefire.
• 🔄 There's a possibility Trump could eventually lose patience with Putin and pivot to imposing sanctions, given Putin's lack of flexibility.

European Efforts and Future Prospects

• 🤝 European leaders, particularly Scholz and Macron, are seen as managing Trump well, keeping him updated and avoiding unhelpful reactions.
• 🛡️ The West is working on a significant support package for Ukraine, including arms, air policing, and maritime support, to convince Putin he cannot win.
• ⚠️ A bilateral meeting between Trump and Putin is considered fraught with danger, as Trump's instincts would be to cut a deal, necessitating Zelensky's presence to ensure the other side of the argument is heard.