Trump’s Ultimate Goal: A Televised Summit with a “Big Win”?

Beyond the complex geopolitics, a simpler, more personal goal may be driving President Trump’s parallel moves on Russia and India: the desire to stage a televised summit where he can announce a “big win.”
The harsh tariffs on India, now in effect, serve to establish his reputation as a tough negotiator who is not afraid to play hardball, even with allies. This sets the stage for the second act.
The second act would be a high-profile meeting, perhaps building on the “Alaska summit” concept, where he and President Putin could announce a breakthrough. This would include a framework for peace in Ukraine and, crucially for the cameras, a major US-Russia investment deal involving a company like Exxon Mobil.
This entire strategy can be seen as a form of political theater, designed for maximum media impact. As one source noted, “The White House really wanted to put out a headline… This is how Trump feels like he’s achieved something.” The intricate policies on India and Russia may simply be the necessary scriptwriting to get to that final, triumphant scene.