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‘Congratulations, Vladimir, starts Xi Jinping, ‘You have accomplished what seemed impossible a few weeks ago. America now says you didn’t invade Ukraine.’
Putin laughs.
‘I couldn’t believe it, myself,’ the Russian returns, ‘I mean, the photos are there, the films, the videos, all showing me amassing my troops to invade… the whole world was a witness to it… and now I didn’t.’
‘A tribute to your powers, Vladimir. You’ve created a new reality. And we can safely say that it was all the work of your steady intimidation, your repeated threats that you would fire your nuclear weapons if the West gave Ukrainians the arms to push you back.’
‘Thank you, Xi. I’m excited that this opens all kinds of possibilities.’
‘Indeed. I can now proceed more quickly to invade Taiwan. We could time our actions, work together…’
‘Yes, while I invade Poland next you could quickly take over the island,’ says Putin.
‘Brilliant’.
‘Trump’s desperation to make a deal gives us the upper hand. What a gift he is to us.’
‘How do you think the negotiations will go?’
‘His efforts to appease me give me the advantage… I will take my time… just to squeeze a bit… and get more concessions.’
‘Of course. Meanwhile, the Far Right did very well in the German elections. They will not be invited to govern but they have become a force to reckon with.’
‘Yes,’ replies Putin. ‘And the Far Right in France has gained strength. We have found our groove, Xi… the world will…
