Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese leader Xi Jinping could benefit from Donald Trump’s alleged physical and cognitive decline, an expert has warned.
The US President faced increased scrutiny over his physical condition after he underwent an MRI scan, which the White House later revealed returned normal results. However, a bruise on his right hand and multiple instances in which Trump appeared to fall asleep in meetings led to further speculation.
talking to I am paperOne expert warned that Russia and China could exploit Trump’s perceived decline.
Mark Shanahan, associate professor of political engagement at the University of Surrey, said: “Trump’s reputation is already one of ‘playing it safe’ among world leaders.
“Proverbs [Vladimir] Putin and Xi [Jinping] They will view any retreat as an opportunity to press their interests – something they have already succeeded in doing in 2025, while traditional friends and partners will increasingly view Trump as an untrustworthy ally.
“The public turned against Joe Biden very quickly when his decline became clear. And if Trump’s age is quickly catching up with him, the American public outside of the MAGA heartland will not hold back from making its concerns clear.”
Trump again tried to quell speculation about his health on Saturday.
He said he had “excelled” several cognitive tests and was in “excellent health.”
Trump added: “I did something that no other president has ever done. I took cognitive tests because I know, and by the way, it wasn’t easy.”