Former Trump Adviser Warns of Putin's Manipulation
Fiona Hill, who served as Donald Trump's Russia adviser during his first presidential term, has issued a stark warning about Vladimir Putin's intentions in Ukraine. In an exclusive interview with The Independent, the former White House official revealed that the Russian president's entire political and economic strategy depends on continuing the conflict.
"Putin's whole economy, his whole society, his whole politics, his whole preservation of self revolves around having this war go on," Hill stated emphatically. Her extensive experience studying Russia and working directly with President Trump has led her to conclude that Putin has completely figured out how to manipulate the American leader.
The Psychological Game Behind Peace Talks
According to Hill's analysis, Putin participates in peace negotiations with a clear ulterior motive. The Russian leader hopes that Trump will pressure Ukraine into surrendering or accepting a ceasefire agreement that would leave them vulnerable to future Russian military action.
Hill explained that Putin understands Trump's psychological makeup perfectly. "Putin realises he is a man with a very fragile ego, and that he is somebody that can be manipulated in that way," she revealed.
The former adviser shared a telling anecdote about Putin's manipulation tactics. The Russian president once told Trump that he was such a strong supporter of Israel that "maybe they should just name the country after you." Astonishingly, Trump reportedly missed the sarcasm entirely, responding with, "Oh no, that would be a bit too much."
International Response and UK Defence Concerns
The situation reached a critical point when Russia's 28-point peace plan, dictated to Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff, was leaked. For a moment, it appeared Putin might successfully deceive the American president.
However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky executed a clever diplomatic manoeuvre. By simply requesting clarification on specific points, he forced Putin to reveal his true intentions. The Russian leader subsequently declared that Ukraine must either retreat to secure a deal or Russia would "achieve our goals by military means."
While the immediate threat of Trump cutting support to Ukraine has diminished, European allies cannot become complacent. Professor Sir Lawrence Freedman of King's College London noted that Russia continues to demand territory it failed to capture through military means.
The recent UK budget announcement has raised concerns about long-term commitment. Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed plans to increase defence spending this year and next but failed to outline a path for sustained investment. Given Hill's assessment that Putin has no interest in peace, Western nations must prepare for a prolonged conflict.
The Ukrainian people continue to demonstrate remarkable bravery in defending their right to self-determination. As Hill's warnings make clear, supporting their fight for freedom, democracy, and the rule of law requires consistent financial and military assistance from Western allies.
