The cartoon published today by Lianhe Zaobao in Singapore carries sharp satirical undertones. According to Russian media reports, U.S. President Trump stated on October 19 that he hopes Russia will cease providing support to Iran moving forward. This marks a reversal from earlier remarks in which Trump welcomed Moscow’s potential role in mediating the situation in Iran.
Commentary: In recent weeks, Trump has consistently extended gestures of goodwill toward Russia—defending the U.S.-Russia diesel agreement and delaying broad sanctions targeting Russian energy sectors. The underlying logic is straightforward: domestic inflation pressures in the United States remain significant, and rising diesel prices are weighing on living standards. With midterm elections approaching, oil prices have become a decisive factor in voter sentiment.
The Iranian issue stands as the most prominent uncertainty on the table. By seeking to engage Russia, Trump’s fundamental aim is to disrupt coordination between Moscow and Tehran, stabilize conditions in the Middle East, and prevent further escalation that could drive up global energy prices. Yet this approach reflects pragmatic, short-term calculations rather than enduring strategic alignment. In Washington’s calculus, there are no permanent allies—every foreign policy move ultimately serves domestic economic interests and electoral strategy.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1879444416207876/
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