22 Jan 2026
58m

Fiona Hill: Putin and the Art of Manipulating Trump

Podcast cover

The Bulwark Podcast

Fiona Hill, former National Security Council expert on Russia, discusses the challenges of serving in the Trump administration and the ongoing threat posed by Vladimir Putin. Hill recounts her early life and unexpected path to becoming a Russia expert, as well as her decision to join the Trump administration to mitigate potential damage from Russian interference. She reveals Trump's disinterest in her expertise and his susceptibility to Putin's manipulation, including the "Venezuela for Ukraine" swap. Hill also addresses the current state of U.S. foreign policy, Mark Carney's speech about the decoupling and the potential for a new world order, and the tragic situation in Ukraine.

Outlines

Part 1: Background, Entry into Government

Part 2: Trump, Putin, and Geopolitical Maneuvering

Part 3: Global Consequences, Allied Relations

Part 4: Ukraine Conflict, Future Outlook

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