Donald Trump’s relationship with Vladimir Putin has long been a topic of debate. From public praise to eyebrow-raising diplomacy, the former president has often been criticized for what many viewed as a soft approach to Russia. But recently, Trump surprised observers by speaking out against Putin. And now, former National Security Advisor John Bolton has chimed in with his take on what may have motivated this sudden change in tone.
A Shift That Got People Talking
Trump’s criticism of Putin didn’t come out of nowhere—but it did raise questions. For years, Trump avoided directly condemning the Russian president, even during tense moments like the invasion of Ukraine or interference in U.S. elections. His recent remarks, however, marked a clear pivot.
John Bolton, never one to hold back, offered his interpretation. In interviews and public comments, Bolton suggested that Trump’s motivation might be more strategic than moral. According to Bolton, it’s not so much a change of heart as it is a calculated move with the 2024 election in mind.
Bolton’s Theory: It’s All About the Optics
So, why now? Bolton thinks the answer is simple: Trump sees political value in distancing himself from Putin at this moment. With Russia’s global image in decline and the American public showing strong support for Ukraine, aligning with Putin no longer carries the same appeal.
Bolton argues that Trump is playing the long game, trying to reposition himself in front of an electorate that’s grown wary of authoritarian leaders. It’s not uncommon for politicians to reshape narratives, and Bolton believes Trump is attempting to rebrand—without alienating his base completely.
Not a Moral Judgment, But a Political One
It’s worth noting that Bolton didn’t suggest Trump had suddenly developed a strong stance on international human rights or democratic values. Instead, he pointed to Trump’s well-known instinct for media and public opinion. In Bolton’s view, Trump’s criticism of Putin is less about substance and more about staying relevant and marketable as a candidate.
Timing Is Everything
Trump’s remarks come as the GOP field heats up, and his critics are looking for weak spots in his foreign policy record. Speaking out against Putin now gives Trump a way to preempt those attacks, and potentially appeal to undecided voters or moderates who see Putin as a threat.
The Bottom Line
John Bolton thinks this might be what motivated Trump to speak out against Putin: strategy over sincerity. Whether or not that’s true, it’s clear that every word from Trump is still calculated, still political, and still aimed at one goal—getting back in the White House.
If you’re watching this storyline unfold, keep one thing in mind—timing in politics is rarely accidental.
