In a new book excerpt published by the Wall Street Journal, former National Security Advisor H.R. McMaster paints a picture of President Donald Trump’s determined pursuit of a close relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin, despite Russia’s interference in US democracy and objections from advisors. McMaster’s memoir provides a behind-the-scenes look at the strained relationship between the two leaders, a dynamic particularly relevant as Americans face another election where foreign interference is a concern.
McMaster, who served as Trump’s second national security advisor from February 2017 to March 2018, reveals that discussions involving Putin and Russia were consistently difficult with the president. Trump, according to McMaster, linked all issues concerning Russia to the ongoing investigation into Moscow’s interference in the 2016 election and possible ties to his campaign, an inquiry that cast a shadow over his entire presidency.
Despite warnings from intelligence officials and advisors, McMaster asserts that Trump, driven by an “overconfident” belief in his ability to forge a positive relationship with Putin, sought to improve ties with Russia from the beginning of his administration. However, McMaster argues that Putin, a former KGB operative, exploited Trump’s ego and insecurities, using flattery to gain his favor. Trump, according to McMaster, exhibited a vulnerability to this approach, demonstrating a fondness for strongmen and a conviction that he alone could cultivate a strong relationship with Putin.
The memoir details numerous instances of friction between Trump and McMaster over their divergent approaches to Putin. Notably, following Putin’s election to a fourth term in March 2018, Trump expressed a desire to congratulate Putin by phone. McMaster, however, argued that the election had been rigged and attempted to dissuade Trump from making the call. Despite McMaster’s concerns, the call was scheduled, and McMaster, anticipating the potential for the Kremlin to spin the conversation as tacit support for the election process and a boost to Russia’s image, warned Trump of the consequences. McMaster even asked Trump, “As Russia tries to delegitimize our legitimate elections, why would you help him legitimize his illegitimate election?”
Trump ultimately went ahead with the call, congratulating Putin and even requesting that the Russian leader be invited to the White House. McMaster, however, believes that his dismissal shortly after this incident stemmed from his opposition to Trump’s approach to Putin. He argues that his role as the “principal voice” warning Trump about Putin’s manipulation of him and other politicians to undermine American democratic principles ultimately led to his replacement by John Bolton, who himself was dismissed about a year-and-a-half later.
The contrast between the four national security advisors during Trump’s presidency and the consistent presence of one advisor under President Joe Biden further highlights the unique challenge presented by Trump’s approach to Putin. McMaster concludes his reflection by acknowledging that “with Donald Trump, most everybody gets used up, and my time had come.” His account underscores the significant concerns surrounding Trump’s relationship with Putin, particularly in the context of ongoing efforts by foreign powers to interfere in US elections.
