Analysis: Kremlin’s lack of concern over Trump’s threats makes you wonder – how genuine is US anger?
By Ivor Bennett, Moscow correspondent
The Kremlin was careful not to take the bait when asked about Donald Trump’s “anger” towards Vladimir Putin.
Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov deployed his trademark technique of downplay, deflect, dismiss.
“The statements were given in paraphrase, they were not quoted” he said, appearing to question the accuracy of the reports that the American president was “pissed off” with Putin.
“Several different statements were made,” he added.
It’s certainly true that a retort could have risked provoking Trump and I think that was a consideration of Peskov.
Primarily, though, I think his response reveals a lack of concern from the Kremlin right now at America’s apparent annoyance.
That’s immediately clear on state TV. The morning news bulletin on the ‘Russia 1’ channel, for example, didn’t mention Trump’s criticism of Putin whatsoever. The only reference to the US president regarded his threats towards Volodymyr Zelenskyy, if Ukraine pulls out of the mineral deal with Washington.
Do Trump’s actions speak louder than his words?
I think this is because, despite Trump’s tough words, his actions towards Moscow remain soft and friendly.
According to the Kremlin, the US and Russia have begun talks on their own joint rare earth projects, with some US firms already expressing interest.
It makes one wonder – how genuine is the American president’s anger?
On the one hand, his comments could reflect a growing frustration at the lack of progress towards a ceasefire.
So far, Putin still hasn’t made any kind of concessions.
Watch below: Who benefits from Black Sea ceasefire?
On the other hand, however, it may just be an attempt to appear even-handed.
Trump’s barbs towards Zelenskyy, and praise of Putin, have led to accusations that he’s pro-Russian, and being played by the Kremlin.
This might just be an attempt to shake those accusations.
Either way, for now at least, Russia doesn’t seem too fussed.
