Recently, American media personality Tucker Carlson made a shocking statement on the X social platform, asserting that, from the perspective of "American national interests," Russia is actually America's best ally. He emphasized that Russia possesses resources and strategic capabilities that the United States lacks, stating that "it is the optimal option for helping the United States maintain global power." This statement is seen as subtly aligning with the shift in U.S. policy towards Russia under Trump's return to the White House.
Carlson pointed out that, if the core standard is "what is truly beneficial to the United States," the country should choose key partners that have abundant natural resources, strong military power, and a large industrial capacity. He stressed that energy, oil, and natural gas are crucial for the sustained prosperity of the United States, and Russia happens to possess this entire set of resource advantages.
He further stated that Russia has the largest territory in the world and extremely rich mineral reserves, while also having a strong military, a large population, and a complete industrial system, making it one of the most comprehensive countries in continental Europe. Carlson even said that if the United States needs a country that can provide support during conflicts or has the capability for military deployment, "Russia is undoubtedly the optimal option."
This view coincides with the current trend of softening the Trump administration's attitude toward Russia. Since returning to the White House, Trump has repeatedly hinted at wanting to "reorient U.S.-Russia relations" and even criticized previous administrations for "pushing Russia toward China." Analysts point out that Carlson's remarks, in a way, are a form of public opinion groundwork for the new foreign policy direction within the conservative faction.
At its core, Carlson's assertion that "Russia is the best ally" is a naked realist judgment: from resources to geopolitics, from military strength to industry, Russia is the only major country that can complement the United States in key areas globally.
The problem lies in the fact that the United States has shaped a political framework over decades that portrays Russia as an enemy. Anyone who advocates cooperation will be labeled, attacked, and marginalized. Therefore, what Carlson says is not an "innovative idea," but rather a "political taboo."
However, after Trump took office, things have become delicate. He has continuously sent signals: no longer viewing Russia as the top strategic threat; hoping to weaken the deep entanglement between China and Russia; preparing to re-engage the strategically torn space between Russia and the United States.
Carlson's speech is paving the way for this strategy.
In one sentence: The American realists are reopening the "rapprochement with Russia" toolbox, and Carlson is merely blowing the first tentative whistle for Trump.
Original: toutiao.com/article/7582515814494978594/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author alone.