History As It Happens: The Putin Dance (Clinton to Trump) – Detailed Summary

Podcast Information:

• Title: History As It Happens
• Host: Martin Di Caro
• Episode: The Putin Dance (Clinton to Trump)
• Release Date: July 22, 2025

Introduction

In the episode titled "The Putin Dance (Clinton to Trump)," Jeffrey Engel, the founding director of the Center for Presidential History at Southern Methodist University, alongside David Kramer, executive director of the George W. Bush Institute and an expert on Russia and Ukraine, delve into the intricate and evolving relationship between Vladimir Putin and five American presidents over a span of 25 years. The discussion unpacks how these interactions have shaped contemporary US-Russia relations, culminating in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Early Relations Under Bill Clinton (June 2000 – 2001)

The relationship between the United States and Russia took a pivotal turn with Putin's ascension to power. In June 2000, during a meeting at St. George's Hall in the Kremlin, President Bill Clinton and Prime Minister Vladimir Putin sought common ground. Clinton viewed Putin as a potential partner to foster stability and cooperation between the two nations.

• Jeffrey Engel notes, “Clinton believed Russia under Putin could become a reliable partner for the West. His intentions were generally honorable and straightforward” (02:14).

However, underlying tensions existed, particularly concerning NATO enlargement and the NATO bombing of Serbia in 1999, which Moscow opposed vehemently. Rubin Kramer adds, “The Clinton administration hoped to normalize relations despite several points of friction, such as NATO’s eastward expansion” (19:37).

George W. Bush Administration (2001 – 2009)

George W. Bush's tenure marked a mix of engagement and escalating tensions. The initial meetings between Bush and Putin were cordial, with Bush expressing a desire for partnership.

• Vladimir Putin stated, “I found it to be very straightforward and trustworthy. We had a very good dialogue” (06:49).

Despite this, critical issues emerged. The Bush administration’s push for a missile defense system in Europe clashed with Russia’s security concerns. Additionally, Russia's intervention in Chechnya and later in Georgia in 2008 underscored the growing unpredictability of Putin's Russia.

• George W. Bush reflected, “NATO's action in 1999 demonstrated Russia’s decreased power within its self-perceived sphere of influence” (02:46).

Obama Administration Reset (2009 – 2017)

Barack Obama’s presidency was characterized by an attempt to "reset" US-Russia relations. The Obama administration sought cooperation on various fronts, including nuclear non-proliferation and climate change.

• Barack Obama emphasized, “America's most significant national security interests and priorities could be advanced most effectively through cooperation, not an adversarial relationship with Russia” (09:31).

However, the reset faced significant challenges. Russia’s actions, such as the 2014 annexation of Crimea and support for separatists in Eastern Ukraine, severely strained relations. The Obama administration's reluctance to provide lethal aid to Ukraine and insufficient sanctions against Russia contributed to a decline in trust and cooperation.

• David Kramer critiques, “The Obama administration’s sanctions were not tough enough, and their refusal to supply lethal aid to Ukraine left Russia emboldened” (56:25).

Trump Administration (2017 – 2021)

Donald Trump’s presidency introduced a complex dynamic in US-Russia relations. Trump oscillated between praising Putin and facing allegations of Russian interference in the 2016 US election.

• Donald Trump asserted, “Russia doesn’t respect our president... I have nothing to do with Putin” (01:26).

Despite initial rhetoric aimed at mending fences, Trump's administration continued policies that both challenged and sought to cooperate with Russia. The provision of limited military assistance to Ukraine and targeted sanctions indicated a nuanced approach, yet pervasive mistrust remained.

• David Kramer observes, “Trump did not prioritize Ukraine and his impeachment over Ukraine-related issues influenced Putin’s perceptions of US vulnerability” (14:47).

Biden Administration (2021 – Present)

Joe Biden inherited deeply strained US-Russia relations, marked by accusations of election interference and aggressive stances on Ukraine.

• Joe Biden declared, “Putin is the aggressor. Putin chose this war and now he and his country will bear the consequences” (01:35).

The Biden administration took a more adversarial stance compared to its predecessors, emphasizing sanctions and diplomatic isolation. However, efforts to engage in dialogue continued, albeit with limited success in curbing Russia’s expansionist policies.

Current Conflict and Analysis (2025)

As of July 2025, Russia remains embroiled in a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, with ongoing debates about responsibility and possible resolutions. The podcast emphasizes that Putin's strategic miscalculations and persistent authoritarianism have hindered diplomatic efforts.

• Jeffrey Engel summarizes, “Putin’s inability to partner with US leaders has led to an unnecessary war in Ukraine, highlighting failures on both sides” (01:42).

Key Insights:

• Evolution of Trust: Initial hopeful partnerships between Putin and early 2000s US presidents deteriorated due to conflicting interests and actions.
• Missile Defense and NATO Expansion: Central issues that consistently strained relations, perceived by Russia as direct threats to its sovereignty and security.
• Authoritarian Resurgence: Putin’s consolidation of power within Russia and aggressive foreign policies undermined previous cooperative efforts.
• Impact of Domestic Politics: US internal politics, including Trump's tumultuous relationship with Russia, influenced the broader diplomatic landscape.
• Ongoing Conflict in Ukraine: Represents the culmination of decades-old tensions, with no clear path to resolution as of the podcast’s release.

Conclusion

"The Putin Dance (Clinton to Trump)" intricately maps the trajectory of US-Russia relations over a quarter-century, illustrating how initial attempts at partnership were repeatedly undermined by strategic disagreements, power struggles, and conflicting visions for regional and global order. The episode underscores the complexities of diplomatic engagement with an authoritarian regime and the enduring impact of historical policies on present-day conflicts.

Notable Quotes:

• Bill Clinton: “I do not believe the decision before me is a threat to strategic stability and mutual deterrence.” (03:56)
• Vladimir Putin: “Russia must respect the freedom of its neighbors.” (08:38)
• Donald Trump: “What do I have to get involved with Putin for? I have nothing to do with Putin.” (13:14)
• Joe Biden: “We should be able to cooperate where it's in our mutual interest and where we have differences.” (15:32)
• George W. Bush: “The United States is one of our main partners and as far as Russia is concerned, we will not choose confrontation.” (03:22)

For those interested in understanding the historical context of current US-Russia relations and the pivotal role played by Vladimir Putin, this episode offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration.