Lesson from Russia's Afghan misadventure? Trump wants diplomacy to take precedence over interventionism

By Vidya Bhushan Rawat 

American President Donald Trump is batting on the front foot these days. Trump 2.0 is very different from his previous term, as the developments we see are not sudden outbursts but well-planned strategies. Though he often appears to be a bully, the fact is that he is pragmatic and is giving valuable lessons to his European partners.

It is a sad day to witness the crisis Europe is facing today. Countries with such a glorious history—both in politics and knowledge—now stand exposed to the world due to a single war on their territory: Ukraine.

As someone who has had the opportunity to travel to both Europe and the United States, I have always preferred Europe and the UK as better choices. The towns, the history, the knowledge, and the people have always been appealing. However, the current political leadership in these countries has betrayed the people. The hardcore anti-Russian agenda unleashed by European leaders—urging smaller nations to insult President Putin as if he were their domestic servant—is the worst form of diplomacy. Due to their alliances, leaders of these smaller countries have become more Russophobic than any other nation. The more they criticize Putin and Russia, the greater their chances of securing opportunities in Brussels, London, Paris, and the White House.

I am amazed at the extent of anti-Russian propaganda—not just among politicians but also in the media and so-called 'experts' on democracy. While we respect Europe's and the UK’s contributions to establishing the rule of law and providing opportunities, we must also acknowledge their dark past. The exploitation of Asia, Africa, and Latin America, slavery, and economic and cultural subjugation are well-documented facts, though they may not sit well with some. The European wars of the 19th century were transformed into world wars, yet both times, Europe had strong alliances.

One crucial fact ignored by Western media is that China was strategically promoted to weaken Russia. Today, however, China has become a greater threat to both Europe and the United States. Western media attempted to portray Russia as if it were suffering from hunger and malnutrition like a Sub-Saharan country. European leaders still use condescending rhetoric toward Russia, believing that sanctions alone could bring the country to its knees. The Western media propagated the idea that Russia was losing the war and that Vladimir Putin would soon face a revolt. Meanwhile, a leader like Zelensky was artificially elevated to a 'global' status by the West. He was given platforms to address the U.S. Congress and various European parliaments, where leaders applauded his Russophobic rhetoric. This portrayal turned Zelensky into a global figure, making him appear as someone the world was eager to listen to and support. In reality, Ukraine—a country in crisis—became an 'opportunity' for Western interests.

Of course, we all know this war is about resources—Ukraine’s wealth and the financial investments flowing into it were ultimately intended for Western returns. Many Western corporations have already acquired land and mining rights in Ukraine. Ironically, many of these resource-rich regions are now under Russian control, as Moscow continues to expand its territorial gains. By the time Zelensky agrees to an American peace proposal, Russia may have already forced the Ukrainian army to surrender or even captured Kyiv.

The issue is not about whether Russia is good and the Americans are bad. The real question is: why inflate the egos of those who cannot fight on their own? The Russia-Ukraine war has always been a battle between unequals. Donald Trump understands this well—without U.S. support, Europe cannot confront Russia militarily. That is why he has humiliated Western leaders, including those of France, the UK, and most recently, Zelensky, during his recent visit. Trump has long argued that diplomacy should take precedence over interventionism, which has only hurt American interests. The Russians learned this lesson in Afghanistan, yet the West repeated the mistake in the Middle East and Afghanistan, losing countless soldiers.

Another rising global trend is the resurgence of nationalism and the religious right. The reason is simple: secular liberal elites have long felt entitled, but today, right-wing leaders—who may seem unsophisticated or blunt—have gained massive popular support. No ideology can function in a vacuum without public involvement. Many intellectuals and citizens in the West respect Vladimir Putin for his leadership qualities. Some Christian leaders admire him for his pro-life and pro-family stance, which has contributed to the growth of Christian right-wing movements in Europe and the U.S. Ironically, the so-called 'left' in America has long ceased to exist, with corporate interests dominating the political landscape.

The question we must ponder is whether the democracy we are urged to follow is genuinely democratic—or whether corporations dictate its course. Is there any place in politics for individuals without financial backing, media influence, mafia connections, or powerful financiers? These forces determine political outcomes everywhere. Simply criticizing Russia and China for lacking democracy will not help. If Russia is merely a dictatorship, how has it produced some of the world’s greatest literature, top-tier athletes, leading scientists, renowned medical professionals, and advanced space technology, not to mention formidable military power?

The real world is about pragmatism, not fabricating heroes out of villains to humiliate a powerful nation. Ukraine’s destiny was always tied to Russia, yet it was weaponized to antagonize and weaken Moscow. This experiment has failed. Europe must now engage in diplomatic talks with Russia. It lost Russian gas and turned to costly American energy, only to feel betrayed. It is time to move forward. Some leaders—driven by corporate interests—may want Ukraine to fight indefinitely until Russia is broken, but this strategy is unsustainable.

Zelensky's epic humiliation at the White House reflects the shifting dynamics in the United States. Donald Trump and his deputy, JD Vance, have deflated Zelensky’s overblown ego. This may look bad in the global media, but consider how British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron reacted. The unfiltered Trump bluntly asked Starmer whether the UK could fight Russia without American support. Trump and his team believe the U.S. has been taken for granted for too long. Meanwhile, Canada’s leadership is sulking as Trump continues to refer to it as the U.S.'s "51st state." While this may be in poor taste, European leaders must now seriously reconsider whether rhetoric and proxy confrontations can yield any real benefits.

Instead of warmongering and Russophobia, Europe must prioritize diplomacy and unity. Isolating Russia will only lead to further disaster.

Moreover, global peace and stability will remain elusive if the West continues its strategy of trying to destabilize and destroy Russia. Donald Trump has recognized this reality—it is time for other world leaders to do the same.