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WASHINGTON – For years, Donald Trump has publicly lauded Vladimir Putin, often portraying the Russian president as a powerful and admirable figure. However, recent shifts in Trump's rhetoric suggest a subtle, yet noticeable, cooling of his admiration. But does this mark a permanent end to the perceived “bromance” between the two?

Since his ascent to political prominence over a decade ago, Trump has consistently praised Putin. He’s described him as a “strong leader,” and emphasized Putin’s willingness to offer positive comments about him – a point Trump often considered particularly significant. This public admiration fueled speculation about a close, even friendly, relationship between the two leaders, a relationship that often drew criticism and raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest.

The dynamic began to shift visibly during the 2020 US presidential election, amidst allegations of Russian interference. While Trump never explicitly condemned Putin, his language became noticeably less effusive. However, even after leaving office, he continued to express a degree of respect, often avoiding direct criticism.

Now, sources close to Trump suggest a growing disillusionment with Putin’s actions, particularly regarding the war in Ukraine. While Trump continues to argue that the conflict could have been avoided with different negotiation strategies, he has become more critical of Putin’s military tactics and the devastating impact on Ukraine. This change in tone is a departure from his previous unwavering support.

“He’s starting to see that Putin isn’t the strong, stable leader he once believed,” said a former Trump advisor, speaking on condition of anonymity. “The war has exposed a different side of Putin, one that’s more ruthless and unpredictable.”

Despite this apparent shift, it's unlikely that Trump will completely abandon his positive view of Putin. Trump’s foreign policy often prioritizes transactional relationships and perceived strength, and he may still see value in maintaining a connection, however tenuous, with the Russian leader. Furthermore, Trump's pronouncements are often designed to generate media attention and maintain his influence within the Republican party, and criticizing Putin too harshly could alienate some of his supporters who share a more sympathetic view of Russia.

The question now is whether this cooling of sentiment represents a genuine change in Trump’s perspective or a calculated political maneuver. Analysts suggest that it could be a combination of both. The changing geopolitical landscape, coupled with Trump’s desire to maintain relevance, may be pushing him to reassess his relationship with Putin.

Ultimately, the future of the Trump-Putin relationship remains uncertain. While the “bromance” may be fading, it’s unlikely to disappear entirely. Trump’s complex and often unpredictable nature suggests that he will continue to navigate this relationship in a way that serves his own interests, regardless of the consequences.

The ongoing war in Ukraine has undoubtedly complicated matters, forcing Trump to confront the reality of Putin’s actions. Whether this will lead to a complete severing of ties or a more cautious and pragmatic approach remains to be seen. One thing is clear: the once-unwavering admiration has begun to wane, and the dynamics of this relationship are undergoing a significant transformation.