Walzer: “Trump Seems in Love with Putin, Europe Today Has a Voice, in ’45 No”
March 24, 2025 — Renowned political theorist Michael Walzer, in a recent interview, shared his sharp views on the evolving global landscape, particularly with regard to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin, and the shifting political dynamics in Europe.
Walzer, who has long been a key figure in international relations and just war theory, offered his perspective on the intersection of European power and American foreign policy. He particularly critiqued the seeming affinity Trump has displayed for Putin over the years, suggesting it goes beyond mere diplomatic posture. “Trump seems in love with Putin,” Walzer remarked, expressing concern over the former president’s repeated praise for the Russian leader, despite Putin’s controversial actions on the world stage.
The Putin-Trump Relationship: A Cause for Concern
Walzer’s comment resonates in light of Trump’s ongoing support for Putin, which has perplexed and alarmed many policymakers in both the U.S. and Europe. Trump’s admiration for Putin, which dates back to his time in office, has sparked significant debate, particularly amid Russia’s aggressive actions in Ukraine and its broader geopolitical ambitions. Walzer suggested that Trump’s favorable stance toward Putin reflects a troubling disregard for the principles of democracy and human rights that define the West’s post-World War II order.
“To see a former U.S. president so consistently defer to a leader who undermines democratic institutions and violates international norms is deeply troubling,” Walzer noted. “Putin’s Russia stands in stark contrast to the values the U.S. is supposed to defend.”
Europe’s Growing Voice in Global Affairs
In contrast to the mid-20th century, when Europe had little voice in shaping the global political order, Walzer emphasized how Europe today holds significant sway in international matters. “Europe has a voice today, unlike in 1945,” he observed. Following the devastation of World War II, Europe was largely relegated to a secondary role as the United States and the Soviet Union dominated the global stage. However, in recent decades, European nations have gained increasing influence, both through the European Union and individual diplomacy, becoming critical actors in issues ranging from climate change to global trade and security.
“Europe’s voice today is stronger, more unified, and more influential than ever before,” Walzer said, pointing to recent events like the EU’s response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, as well as its proactive role in addressing climate change and human rights issues globally. “The idea that Europe is simply a follower of American foreign policy is outdated. Europe is now charting its own path, one that reflects its own values and interests.”
The Legacy of 1945: A Shifting Global Order
Reflecting on the aftermath of World War II, Walzer contrasted the geopolitical order of 1945 with today’s more multipolar world. Following the war, Europe was devastated, and the U.S. emerged as the dominant superpower. The global order was essentially defined by the Cold War and the division of spheres of influence between the U.S. and the Soviet Union. Europe, once the center of world power, was now relegated to the periphery of global politics.
“In 1945, Europe had no say. It was the U.S. and the Soviet Union that dictated the global terms,” Walzer explained. “But today, Europe’s political and economic strength cannot be ignored. The rise of the EU has shifted the balance of power in a way that was unthinkable 80 years ago.”
Challenges and Future Prospects
Despite Europe’s growing influence, Walzer cautioned that there are still significant challenges ahead, particularly as authoritarian regimes like Russia and China continue to challenge democratic values and stability. The resurgence of populism in both the U.S. and Europe presents an additional risk, as leaders like Trump continue to advocate for policies that diverge from traditional international norms.
“The world is facing a dangerous moment,” Walzer warned. “We are at a crossroads where the principles of democracy, human rights, and international cooperation are under threat. Europe’s role in defending these values will be critical in the coming years.”
In conclusion, Walzer’s reflections underscore a critical moment in world history. As Europe finds its voice in global politics, the U.S. faces internal divisions and external challenges, particularly in its relationship with Russia. Whether the West can hold firm in the face of rising authoritarianism remains to be seen, but Walzer’s insights suggest that the road ahead will be fraught with complexity and hard choices.
As for the future of U.S.-Russia relations, Walzer is clear: “A relationship based on admiration for an autocrat is a dangerous path for any democracy.”
