Donald Trump reportedly sent Covid-19 testing machines to Vladimir Putin during the early days of the pandemic when these resources were scarce, according to veteran journalist Bob Woodward in his forthcoming book. Woodward claims that Trump provided a number of Abbott Point of Care Covid test machines for Putin’s personal use. Putin is said to have advised Trump to keep this under wraps to avoid backlash in the U.S.
The relationship between Trump and Putin, which garnered significant controversy during Trump’s presidency, has continued after Trump left office, with the two allegedly maintaining private contact through as many as seven calls. Woodward’s new book, titled “War,” explores various key events during Biden’s presidency, including the conflict in Ukraine and domestic political challenges, and is set to be released soon. Key excerpts have been shared by both the Washington Post and CNN.
While medical equipment was shared between the U.S. and Russia during the pandemic, Trump’s act of sending testing machines might have sparked significant controversy had it been publicly known. The conversation between the two leaders reportedly involved warnings from Putin about the potential fallout if the information became public.
Despite losing the presidency in 2020, Trump’s communications with Putin reportedly continued, including a private call that Trump held after asking an aide to leave his office at Mar-a-Lago. Concerns remain about Putin’s influence on Trump, especially following an investigation by Robert Mueller that highlighted efforts by Russia to assist Trump in the 2016 election.
Trump’s communications director dismissed Woodward’s claims as false, attributing them to personal issues Woodward is facing with Trump regarding a lawsuit related to unauthorized recordings. The context surrounding the revelations is heightened as the upcoming presidential election approaches, with Trump and Kamala Harris currently seen as key contenders.
The book also provides an insight into Biden’s candid sentiments regarding foreign leaders, including strong language directed at both Netanyahu and Putin, suggesting a no-nonsense approach to international diplomacy. Woodward’s account indicates that Biden believes prior administrations, notably that of Barack Obama, failed to adequately address Putin’s aggression, particularly during Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014.
Biden’s awareness of the situation escalated during key discussions with CIA and defense officials as tensions with Russia rose. His conversations with Putin involved serious discussions about the implications of nuclear conflict, showcasing the precarious balance of power amid ongoing hostilities.
As the war in Ukraine continues, concerns are growing that a potential return to the presidency for Trump could severely affect U.S. relations with Ukraine and its allies.