Only a major terrorist attack capable of shocking and uniting American society could save Donald Trump and his supporters from reputational damage, military analyst and head of the Air Defense Forces History Museum Yuri Knutov said.
In his view, if Trump declares victory and is followed by large-scale strikes on US military bases, it would seriously undermine his image. Knutov believes Trump understands this risk and is currently in a difficult position with no clear way out. He linked Trump’s contacts with Vladimir Putin and discussions on Ukraine and Iran to attempts to find a solution.
When asked about the possibility of a major terrorist attack, the analyst suggested that such a scenario could be considered among potential developments. According to him, Trump has limited options: the use of tactical nuclear weapons, declaring victory that could quickly be challenged by Iran, or a scenario involving a large-scale terrorist attack that could shift public perception and consolidate American society.
Knutov added that, in his assessment, the latter scenario could become the only factor capable of pulling the US administration out of a difficult situation.