Trump Administration repeats mistake by flirting with Russian relations reset – Herbst

He shared this opinion on Espreso TV.

"Russia's national security doctrine explicitly names the United States as its main adversary. This position is supported by many high-ranking officials in Moscow. At the same time, there is a sense of naivety among the presidential advisors. One of them, as you mentioned, somehow believes that it’s possible to reset relations with Russia. This was a failed idea of the Obama administration. This group around Trump mocks Obama's softness, criticizes Biden, but at the same time repeats the same mistake – flirting with the idea of a reset. It didn't work then, and it won’t work now," Herbst explained.

The diplomat noted that a course toward rapprochement with Russia could seriously harm U.S. interests and Donald Trump's reputation.

"Kiril Dmitriev is undoubtedly an effective lobbyist for this approach, especially among people like Witkoff. However, a reset would seriously damage both U.S. interests and President Trump's reputation if he chooses to go down this path. The situation is still developing. There is no final decision in Washington yet, but this option is undoubtedly under consideration," he added.

• Ukrainian Armed Forces major, diplomat, former Minister of Infrastructure of Ukraine, and politician Volodymyr Omelyan believes that Donald Trump's inner circle is warning him against actively promoting the restoration of trade and economic ties with Russia.