WASHINGTON

On June 21st, President Donald Trump ordered a military strike on a uranium enrichment site deep within the mountains of northwestern Iran. In light of Israel’s recent attacks, on June 18th, the president’s decision shocked a portion of the world. Meanwhile, like-minded leaders in the UK (Nigel Farage) and across the globe praised it.

In the East, another world leader weighed in on the US military endeavor: Vladimir Putin. Putin, in his publicly stoic manner, spoke out against Trump’s actions. He declared that Iran has a right to develop a nuclear program for “peaceful” purposes.

Putin

Putin claims to defend traditional Christian values in the Orthodox East and to promote the importance of national culture, traditions, and families. Would his beliefs not therefore place him at odds with an Islamic state to the south? This region was once the proud kingdom of ancient Persia.

As for Trump, he declared both war and peace in a matter of days. This left supporters uncomfortable with the thought of entering another conflict in the Middle East. Even prominent journalist Tucker Carlson has questioned the government’s stance on Israel and Iran.

How will these two leaders, the living juxtaposition between East and West, navigate these unsettled times? What is their vision moving forward?

Drill, Baby, Drill

According to David Oxley, “As it stands, it is arguably not in Iran’s best interests to close the Strait.” Oxley is the chief climate and commodities economist at Capital Economics. Since the strikes, the Iranian government threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz, blocking American and allied ships from accessing its ports. Experts agree that Iran will most likely not follow through on their threat.

Trump

Trump claims that Iran cannot hope to rebuild its nuclear facility. Meanwhile, Pentagon and other officials strike a more cautious pose. However, many worry that the American economy will take a hit by the rising cost of crude oil from the region. “And given that most oil flows originating from Iraq, Kuwait, and Iran itself can’t be diverted, we estimate that no more than 30% of existing oil flows could be redirected,” Oxley recently told reporters.

Republicans and other conservatives see this as an opportunity to increase America’s energy independence and reduce the need for foreign oil. Putin has increased Russia’s self-reliance since the sanctions imposed in 2022 at the beginning of the war in Ukraine. Russia’s natural resources, i.e. gas and oil, place the country in a unique and valuable position. On this issue, increasing national independence seems to be a common goal between the Trump administration and Putin.

Keep the Home Fires Burning

Despite harsh words for Israel’s Benjamin Netanyahu, Putin has not publicly made a move to support Iran. In a recent RT report, Putin said, “Russia today stands on the right side of history and international law.” By concentrating Russian military efforts in Ukraine, the Kremlin remains silent on the Middle East conflict.

Trump issued a statement regarding the alleged legitimacy of the attack. “His (Khamenei) country was decimated, his three evil nuclear sites were obliterated, and I knew exactly where he was sheltered, and would not let Israel, or the U.S. Armed Forces… terminate his life. I saved him from a very ugly and ignominious death,” the president wrote.

TIME Magazine

According to TIME Magazine, the sanctions against Iran are “arguably the most extensive and comprehensive set of sanctions that the United States maintains on any country.” Those who disagree with Trump’s decision say that he should focus more on the issues at home than abroad.

Both Russia and the United States desire to put their nation and people first. At times, the motives may appear murky or questionable, but the end goals of prosperity and strength remain the same. How and why those goals are achieved remain to be seen.

What do you think? Should the U.S. be striking abroad while facing problems at home? Sound off below — Rachel’