zelensky is a dictator full stop. Unlike Putin who is democratically elected multiple times in free and fair elections, something Ukraine or USA knows nothing about.
Atlanta Fed thinks the economy is now shrinking. Remember that every recession in the last half century came with a right winger in the WH. We might extend that streak. Congrats.
“The GDPNow model estimate for real GDP growth (seasonally adjusted annual rate) in the first quarter of 2025 is -1.5 percent on February 28”
This post was edited 3 minutes after it was posted.
Trump got all pissy about the notion that if Ukraine falls, we will feel it.
Well, if all those mineral mines fall, permanently, into Russian hands, does he not see that we will feel that?
How dumb is don-OLD?
Is that what set Trump off?
What a harmless statement of fact.
More proof that this was a pre planned ambush to give cover from Trump withdrawal of US support.
What set off Trump and Vance is that after Trump said we will trust Putin to keep his side of a deal, Zelenskyy pointed out that Putin broke a cease fire in 2015 so there’s is no reason to trust him next time either. Which is saying in front his American hosts that their plan is a bad one. Kind of rude and a mistake on Z’s part. But true.
This post was edited 1 minute after it was posted.
What set off Trump and Vance is that after Trump said we will trust Putin to keep his side of a deal, Zelenskyy pointed out that Putin broke a cease fire in 2015 so there’s is no reason to trust him next time either. Which is saying in front his American hosts that their plan is a bad one. Kind of rude and a mistake on Z’s part. But true.
Good catch. John Podesta said that this type of heated back and forth in international negotiations is actually common behind closed doors, but to do it in front of cameras is unprecedented. (Note: I think it was Podesta, but I was only half listening when the introduction was made. It could have been someone else.)
As the saying goes, you don't want to see how the sausage is made. That was not a pretty sight. Let me be clear that I didn't like what happened today.
That said...
An overlooked factor that isn't being discussed in these negotiations is how this deal will affect negotiations with Putin.
If you ask AI if Putin is a psychopath, answer is that Putin isn't just a psychopath, he shows classic psychopathic traits.
To make matters worse, Putin is a psychopath with nuclear weapons! And even worse, it has been speculated that Putin has cancer and/or Parkinson's. There is a video showing him with uncontrollable shaking. Parkinson's can be slow, like with Michael J. Fox, but Parkinson's is almost always fatal when it surfaces in an older person. Life expectancy from diagnosis is less than 11 years. At some point, Putin could just snap and think, I'm going out anyway so I'm just going to launch my nukes and take all these MFs with me!
If you ask AI how to negotiate with a psychopathic leader, the answer is to flatter him.
ChatGPT wrote:
Yes, **playing to a psychopath's ego** can be an effective negotiation tactic—**but only if done strategically**. Since psychopaths are driven by **power, control, and self-interest**, appealing to their **vanity, superiority, or self-image** can make them more cooperative, at least temporarily.
### **When Playing to Their Ego Works** 1. **Gaining Short-Term Leverage** - Flattery can make them **feel in control** and lower their guard. - If they believe you're an **admirer, not a threat**, they may be more open to negotiation. - Example: A diplomat dealing with a ruthless leader might **praise their "wisdom" or "strategic genius"** to keep discussions open.
2. **Guiding Them Toward a Desired Outcome** - Frame the negotiation so they **believe it benefits them** or enhances their power. - Instead of appealing to morality, **present your proposal as a "brilliant move" that boosts their reputation or control**. - Example: Instead of saying, *"This deal is fair for everyone,"* say, *"This deal will cement your legacy as a visionary leader."*
3. **Avoiding Immediate Hostility** - Psychopaths **hate feeling challenged** and may lash out if they sense defiance. - Subtle ego-stroking can **prevent unnecessary aggression**. - Example: If dealing with a psychopathic CEO, **complimenting their “sharp business instincts”** may make them more likely to listen.
---
### **The Risks of Overplaying Ego** 1. **They May See Through It** - If the flattery is too obvious, they may view it as manipulation and retaliate. - Psychopaths **respect strength, not desperation**, so **never appear weak**.
2. **They Might Exploit You Instead** - If they sense you rely on ego-stroking, they’ll **milk it for concessions** without giving anything in return. - Example: A psychopathic politician might **enjoy endless praise but never honor a deal**.
3. **They Don't Feel Gratitude** - Unlike normal people, psychopaths **don’t feel obligated to return kindness**. - Appealing to their ego works **only if it directly benefits them in that moment**.
---
### **Best Approach: Strategic Flattery + Firm Boundaries** ✔ **Use ego-stroking sparingly**, just enough to keep them engaged. ✔ **Tie their self-interest to your goal** (e.g., “This deal will make you look strong and decisive.”). ✔ **Stay firm on your position**—don’t become submissive. ✔ **Know when to disengage**—if they’re only exploiting you, stop playing the game.
Would you like an example of how to structure a negotiation with a psychopathic leader or boss?
I responded "yes" and got the following response.
ChatGPT wrote:
Negotiating with a leader exhibiting psychopathic traits, such as Vladimir Putin, requires a strategic approach that carefully balances **ego management** with **firm boundaries**. In a hypothetical negotiation between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin over the future of Ukraine, the following tactics could be employed:
### **1. Strategic Flattery to Engage**
**Trump** might begin by acknowledging **Putin's strategic acumen** and **Russia's historical influence** in the region. This could involve statements like:
- *"President Putin, your leadership has undeniably restored Russia's prominence on the world stage."*
- *"Russia's role in Eastern Europe has been pivotal for centuries."*
Such remarks can **appeal to Putin's ego**, fostering a more **open and receptive atmosphere** for discussions.
### **2. Framing Proposals to Align with Self-Interest**
To advance negotiations, **Trump** could present solutions that appear to **benefit Putin directly**, ensuring they are framed as **mutually advantageous**:
- **Economic Incentives**: Propose lifting specific sanctions contingent upon Russia's commitment to a ceasefire, highlighting how this would bolster Russia's economy.
- **Security Guarantees**: Offer assurances that Ukraine will remain non-aligned militarily, addressing Russia's concerns about NATO expansion.
By positioning these offers as **wins for Russia**, **Putin** may be more inclined to consider them favorably.
### **3. Maintaining Firm Boundaries**
While engaging **Putin's ego**, it's crucial to **set clear limits** to prevent manipulation:
- **Non-Negotiable Terms**: Clearly state that certain issues, such as Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, are not up for debate.
- **Consequences for Non-Compliance**: Outline specific repercussions if agreements are violated, such as the re-imposition of sanctions or increased diplomatic isolation.
This approach ensures that while **Putin's ego is acknowledged**, it doesn't lead to **unilateral concessions**.
### **4. Leveraging Public Perception**
**Trump** could utilize media to **publicly commend** **Putin** for any positive steps taken during negotiations:
- *"President Putin has shown a commendable commitment to peace with his recent actions."*
Public praise can **enhance Putin's image**, providing an **incentive to maintain cooperative behavior**.
### **5. Ensuring Reciprocal Actions**
For every concession offered, **Trump** should **require a tangible action** from **Putin**:
- If sanctions are to be lifted, Russia must first **withdraw troops** from specific contested areas.
- Economic collaborations could proceed only after **verified ceasefires** are in place.
This ensures that **engaging Putin's ego** translates into **concrete, positive outcomes**.
By combining **strategic flattery** with **firm boundaries** and **reciprocal expectations**, negotiations can be steered towards a resolution that acknowledges the interests of both parties while upholding international principles.
Putin is a monster. Not only can he not be trusted. He likely has a disease that could make him paranoid and emotionally unstable. I suspect that Trump's change in approach to Zelensky might have something to do with Putin becoming increasingly unstable. Turning Ukraine into Chernobyl isn't in anyone's best interests.
This post was edited 2 minutes after it was posted.
More proof that this was a pre planned ambush to give cover from Trump withdrawal of US support.
What set off Trump and Vance is that after Trump said we will trust Putin to keep his side of a deal, Zelenskyy pointed out that Putin broke a cease fire in 2015 so there’s is no reason to trust him next time either. Which is saying in front his American hosts that their plan is a bad one. Kind of rude and a mistake on Z’s part. But true.
Not so sure it was a mistake on Z's part.
Trump was going to abandon Ukraine regardless of any words or actions that Z made. (see "What is best for Putin").
What set off Trump and Vance is that after Trump said we will trust Putin to keep his side of a deal, Zelenskyy pointed out that Putin broke a cease fire in 2015 so there’s is no reason to trust him next time either. Which is saying in front his American hosts that their plan is a bad one. Kind of rude and a mistake on Z’s part. But true.
Good catch. John Podesta said that this type of heated back and forth in international negotiations is actually common behind closed doors, but to do it in front of cameras is unprecedented. (Note: I think it was Podesta, but I was only half listening when the introduction was made. It could have been someone else.)
As the saying goes, you don't want to see how the sausage is made. That was not a pretty sight. Let me be clear that I didn't like what happened today.
That said...
An overlooked factor that isn't being discussed in these negotiations is how this deal will affect negotiations with Putin.
If you ask AI if Putin is a psychopath, answer is that Putin isn't just a psychopath, he shows classic psychopathic traits.
To make matters worse, Putin is a psychopath with nuclear weapons! And even worse, it has been speculated that Putin has cancer and/or Parkinson's. There is a video showing him with uncontrollable shaking. Parkinson's can be slow, like with Michael J. Fox, but Parkinson's is almost always fatal when it surfaces in an older person. Life expectancy from diagnosis is less than 11 years. At some point, Putin could just snap and think, I'm going out anyway so I'm just going to launch my nukes and take all these MFs with me!
If you ask AI how to negotiate with a psychopathic leader, the answer is to flatter him.
ChatGPT wrote:
Yes, **playing to a psychopath's ego** can be an effective negotiation tactic—**but only if done strategically**. Since psychopaths are driven by **power, control, and self-interest**, appealing to their **vanity, superiority, or self-image** can make them more cooperative, at least temporarily.
### **When Playing to Their Ego Works** 1. **Gaining Short-Term Leverage** - Flattery can make them **feel in control** and lower their guard. - If they believe you're an **admirer, not a threat**, they may be more open to negotiation. - Example: A diplomat dealing with a ruthless leader might **praise their "wisdom" or "strategic genius"** to keep discussions open.
2. **Guiding Them Toward a Desired Outcome** - Frame the negotiation so they **believe it benefits them** or enhances their power. - Instead of appealing to morality, **present your proposal as a "brilliant move" that boosts their reputation or control**. - Example: Instead of saying, *"This deal is fair for everyone,"* say, *"This deal will cement your legacy as a visionary leader."*
3. **Avoiding Immediate Hostility** - Psychopaths **hate feeling challenged** and may lash out if they sense defiance. - Subtle ego-stroking can **prevent unnecessary aggression**. - Example: If dealing with a psychopathic CEO, **complimenting their “sharp business instincts”** may make them more likely to listen.
---
### **The Risks of Overplaying Ego** 1. **They May See Through It** - If the flattery is too obvious, they may view it as manipulation and retaliate. - Psychopaths **respect strength, not desperation**, so **never appear weak**.
2. **They Might Exploit You Instead** - If they sense you rely on ego-stroking, they’ll **milk it for concessions** without giving anything in return. - Example: A psychopathic politician might **enjoy endless praise but never honor a deal**.
3. **They Don't Feel Gratitude** - Unlike normal people, psychopaths **don’t feel obligated to return kindness**. - Appealing to their ego works **only if it directly benefits them in that moment**.
---
### **Best Approach: Strategic Flattery + Firm Boundaries** ✔ **Use ego-stroking sparingly**, just enough to keep them engaged. ✔ **Tie their self-interest to your goal** (e.g., “This deal will make you look strong and decisive.”). ✔ **Stay firm on your position**—don’t become submissive. ✔ **Know when to disengage**—if they’re only exploiting you, stop playing the game.
Would you like an example of how to structure a negotiation with a psychopathic leader or boss?
I responded "yes" and got the following response.
ChatGPT wrote:
Negotiating with a leader exhibiting psychopathic traits, such as Vladimir Putin, requires a strategic approach that carefully balances **ego management** with **firm boundaries**. In a hypothetical negotiation between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin over the future of Ukraine, the following tactics could be employed:
### **1. Strategic Flattery to Engage**
**Trump** might begin by acknowledging **Putin's strategic acumen** and **Russia's historical influence** in the region. This could involve statements like:
- *"President Putin, your leadership has undeniably restored Russia's prominence on the world stage."*
- *"Russia's role in Eastern Europe has been pivotal for centuries."*
Such remarks can **appeal to Putin's ego**, fostering a more **open and receptive atmosphere** for discussions.
### **2. Framing Proposals to Align with Self-Interest**
To advance negotiations, **Trump** could present solutions that appear to **benefit Putin directly**, ensuring they are framed as **mutually advantageous**:
- **Economic Incentives**: Propose lifting specific sanctions contingent upon Russia's commitment to a ceasefire, highlighting how this would bolster Russia's economy.
- **Security Guarantees**: Offer assurances that Ukraine will remain non-aligned militarily, addressing Russia's concerns about NATO expansion.
By positioning these offers as **wins for Russia**, **Putin** may be more inclined to consider them favorably.
### **3. Maintaining Firm Boundaries**
While engaging **Putin's ego**, it's crucial to **set clear limits** to prevent manipulation:
- **Non-Negotiable Terms**: Clearly state that certain issues, such as Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, are not up for debate.
- **Consequences for Non-Compliance**: Outline specific repercussions if agreements are violated, such as the re-imposition of sanctions or increased diplomatic isolation.
This approach ensures that while **Putin's ego is acknowledged**, it doesn't lead to **unilateral concessions**.
### **4. Leveraging Public Perception**
**Trump** could utilize media to **publicly commend** **Putin** for any positive steps taken during negotiations:
- *"President Putin has shown a commendable commitment to peace with his recent actions."*
Public praise can **enhance Putin's image**, providing an **incentive to maintain cooperative behavior**.
### **5. Ensuring Reciprocal Actions**
For every concession offered, **Trump** should **require a tangible action** from **Putin**:
- If sanctions are to be lifted, Russia must first **withdraw troops** from specific contested areas.
- Economic collaborations could proceed only after **verified ceasefires** are in place.
This ensures that **engaging Putin's ego** translates into **concrete, positive outcomes**.
By combining **strategic flattery** with **firm boundaries** and **reciprocal expectations**, negotiations can be steered towards a resolution that acknowledges the interests of both parties while upholding international principles.
Putin is a monster. Not only can he not be trusted. He likely has a disease that could make him paranoid and emotionally unstable. I suspect that Trump's change in approach to Zelensky might have something to do with Putin becoming increasingly unstable. Turning Ukraine into Chernobyl isn't in anyone's best interests.
You are giving Trump WAY too much credit for his intellectual capacity and negotiating acumen.
I find it really interesting that many Americans like Trump. I can't speak for the rest of the world, but here in Scandinavia we have some stereotypes regarding US. You have the selfish people with brains in the west and east, and then you have people without education, who doesn't read daily and can believe in anything. And both groups can only speak one language, two at most, and doesn't put too much importance in learning from history. But most people thought the stereotypes was exaggerated and unreal. So when Trump was elected for president many believed it was fake news, both in his first term and second. But now people start believing the stereotypes and that many Americans believe they will get richer instead of poorer.
The high debt US has and the constant creation of dollars due to bad politics is real, and I like that Trump sees that too. But he doesn't come up with solutions that will actually work. It seems like a very desperate move. He uses his feelings. Actually the eethoric and merchandise created by the Republican party is all about feelings and not logic. That is dangerous
I find it really interesting that many Americans like Trump. I can't speak for the rest of the world, but here in Scandinavia we have some stereotypes regarding US. You have the selfish people with brains in the west and east, and then you have people without education, who doesn't read daily and can believe in anything. And both groups can only speak one language, two at most, and doesn't put too much importance in learning from history. But most people thought the stereotypes was exaggerated and unreal. So when Trump was elected for president many believed it was fake news, both in his first term and second. But now people start believing the stereotypes and that many Americans believe they will get richer instead of poorer.
The high debt US has and the constant creation of dollars due to bad politics is real, and I like that Trump sees that too. But he doesn't come up with solutions that will actually work. It seems like a very desperate move. He uses his feelings. Actually the eethoric and merchandise created by the Republican party is all about feelings and not logic. That is dangerous
Was the concept of "alternative fact" Trump's? The idea of pretending something is a "fact" because it feels good and we wish it were true?
Scaramucci said that Trump insiders are telling him that Trump is not well and that is why either Vance or Elon is always at his side. Trump called Zelensky a dictator and then could not recall doing it a few days later. Social media went wild after pictures showed the tops of Trump's hands all bruised up. And Trump completely lost his sh#t in a diplomatic call with Denmark's leaders. Trump is clearly more combative and quick to lose his temper than he was in 2016-2020. He may just decided to take the gloves off this time around. But the way he went off on Zelensky and the leaders of Denmark sound a lot like when Grandpa gets mad at the waitress when the steak comes out well done instead of medium rare.
This.
I invite you to listen to the entire portion where Trump went off on a tirade about Obama, Bush and Biden. This is the one where he says he trusts Putin not to break any deal he will make because he never broke deals during his 4 years. (Never mind that Trump had no deals with Moscow during his first term). I think it was yesterday. But maybe he did it adequately today.
Holy Moses! Trump is NOT well. He is angry all the time and insane. And his rantings not only are filled with lies but there are now entirely incoherent.
Plus the tirade about Hunter Biden's bedroom or bathroom (he seemed to get confused which he meant, but I'm not sure how any of it made any sense, or had anything to do with the "peace/mineral deal").
Trump's early dementia signs were on display yesterday when he kept forgetting the year of Russian invasion of Crimea and had to be corrected by JD Vance and Zelensky. Also easily losing his temper during the press conference which is another sign of dementia.
Now Norwegian scientist says Europe should prepare to defend against an attack from US and Russia. Trump destroyed so many years of hard work. He has wasted American tax money. There will be no coming back from this
ICE is doing work getting POS off the streets and cleaning up biden/harris' mess.
A Haitian migrant charged with triple murder in Fayetteville, North Carolina, who allegedly killed several members of his family last week, had come to the U.S. as part of former President biden’s controversial migrant flights program, according to authorities.
The Fayetteville Police Department said that 26-year-old mackendy darbouze has been charged with three counts of first-degree murder for allegedly killing 77-year-old Beatrice Desir, as well as a 13-year-old and a 4-year-old.
What an animal!
Terrible things are happening outside. At any time of day or night, poor helpless people are being dragged out of their homes. They’re allowed to take only a backpack and whatever cash they can find, and even then, might be robbed on the way. Families are torn apart, men, women and children are separated. Children come home from school to find their parents gone. Women return from shopping to find their families gone.
After this Trump just waved aside failed security checks, harming national security.
Also reminding us that trump has always surrounded himself with degenerates like himself. Trump's staff today is full of such disgusting slime.
2/23/2017:
It is confirmed that six White House staff members, including Chief Digital Officer Gerrit Lansing, were removed from their positions earlier in the month after failing FBI background checks.[214]
Trump 1 Scandal Blotter
In which POTUS tried out his autocratic wish to eliminate the free press. He's still working on that but he'll get there.
2/24/17
The New York Times is barred from the White House press briefing along with the BBC, CNN, Politico, The Huffington Post, The Los Angeles Times and BuzzFeed News, prompting criticism from the White House Correspondents' Association.[221]
Trump 1 Scandal Blotter
Note of course that the House Intel Cmmtee at the time was controlled by Republicans and STILL opened an investigation into Trump-Russia. And eventually it published a report saying the 'Russia Hoax' was 100% real and not a hoax. It will always be real no matter how much the rubes want to believe Captain Kremlin that it was a hoax.
2/28/2017
The House Intelligence Committee opens an inquiry into allegations of Russian interference in the 2016 United States elections.[244] The Department of Justice confirms that Attorney General Sessions met Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak two times in 2016.[245][246]
What set off Trump and Vance is that after Trump said we will trust Putin to keep his side of a deal, Zelenskyy pointed out that Putin broke a cease fire in 2015 so there’s is no reason to trust him next time either. Which is saying in front his American hosts that their plan is a bad one. Kind of rude and a mistake on Z’s part. But true.
Not so sure it was a mistake on Z's part.
Trump was going to abandon Ukraine regardless of any words or actions that Z made. (see "What is best for Putin").
As such, what did Z lose by telling the truth?
fair point. Telling the truth to Trump's face will help Ukraine get support from the other great democracies. The great democracies not allying with Russia:
Canada, Australia, Japan, France, UK, Germany, Italy, Spain, Belgium etc.
You know, the good guys.
This post was edited 2 minutes after it was posted.
Good catch. John Podesta said that this type of heated back and forth in international negotiations is actually common behind closed doors, but to do it in front of cameras is unprecedented. (Note: I think it was Podesta, but I was only half listening when the introduction was made. It could have been someone else.)
As the saying goes, you don't want to see how the sausage is made. That was not a pretty sight. Let me be clear that I didn't like what happened today.
That said...
An overlooked factor that isn't being discussed in these negotiations is how this deal will affect negotiations with Putin.
If you ask AI if Putin is a psychopath, answer is that Putin isn't just a psychopath, he shows classic psychopathic traits.
To make matters worse, Putin is a psychopath with nuclear weapons! And even worse, it has been speculated that Putin has cancer and/or Parkinson's. There is a video showing him with uncontrollable shaking. Parkinson's can be slow, like with Michael J. Fox, but Parkinson's is almost always fatal when it surfaces in an older person. Life expectancy from diagnosis is less than 11 years. At some point, Putin could just snap and think, I'm going out anyway so I'm just going to launch my nukes and take all these MFs with me!
If you ask AI how to negotiate with a psychopathic leader, the answer is to flatter him.
I responded "yes" and got the following response.
Putin is a monster. Not only can he not be trusted. He likely has a disease that could make him paranoid and emotionally unstable. I suspect that Trump's change in approach to Zelensky might have something to do with Putin becoming increasingly unstable. Turning Ukraine into Chernobyl isn't in anyone's best interests.
You are giving Trump WAY too much credit for his intellectual capacity and negotiating acumen.
Like, by a factor of ten trillion.
You are essentially calling Trump a doofus and mental midget. Yet despite those shortcomings he was able to win the presidency twice which is even more amazing considering how in the tank the media was for his 2 opponents.