The “great” negotiator

[Flatlandcoug]

In case you haven’t heard, the great negotiator is now talking about abandoning Ukraine because he is learning that his idiotic bullying tactics aren’t going to work on Russia. Putin gives zero f#cks about Trump and knows that there isn’t anything Trump can do that hasn’t already been done.

And he’s learning that Ukraine would rather fight to the end rather than capitulate to Russia.

When the US pulled out of Afghanistan, Trump and his idiotic minions railed on about Biden and his lack of morals. What Trump is doing is far worse and his every action on this and everything else is leading us down a path where the US is weaker and less meaningful than when he arrived.

Trump has always had good instincts and that has served him well in life, but he’s also really f#cking dumb and that has led him to many stupid conclusions along the way.

It’s just too bad that dumb Americans, motivated by the delusions that Trump would save our economy and keep those dirty immigrants out of our country, have put us in a position where our great grandchildren are going to be reading textbooks of how great the US used to be.

As he stomps around like a child not getting his way, it’s obvious that the illusion of his negotiating skills was just hiding the fact that he’s just a bully who runs away when he gets punched in the mouth.

Running out of patience, Trump could abandon peace negotiations in Russia's war on Ukraine — USA TODAY

President Donald Trump is frustrated with Russia and Ukraine and could instruct his administration to pull out of peace talks.

apple.news

 

[BiggsCoug]

In case you haven’t heard, the great negotiator is now talking about abandoning Ukraine because he is learning that his idiotic bullying tactics aren’t going to work on Russia. Putin gives zero f#cks about Trump and knows that there isn’t anything Trump can do that hasn’t already been done.

And he’s learning that Ukraine would rather fight to the end rather than capitulate to Russia.

When the US pulled out of Afghanistan, Trump and his idiotic minions railed on about Biden and his lack of morals. What Trump is doing is far worse and his every action on this and everything else is leading us down a path where the US is weaker and less meaningful than when he arrived.

Trump has always had good instincts and that has served him well in life, but he’s also really f#cking dumb and that has led him to many stupid conclusions along the way.

It’s just too bad that dumb Americans, motivated by the delusions that Trump would save our economy and keep those dirty immigrants out of our country, have put us in a position where our great grandchildren are going to be reading textbooks of how great the US used to be.

As he stumps around like a child not getting his way, it’s obvious that the illusion of his negotiating skills was just hiding the fact that he’s just a bully who runs away when he gets punched in the mouth.

Running out of patience, Trump could abandon peace negotiations in Russia's war on Ukraine — USA TODAY

President Donald Trump is frustrated with Russia and Ukraine and could instruct his administration to pull out of peace talks.

apple.news

The dumbest of Americans are maga. Wait until the 145% tariffs hit the shelves. So much for lowering prices.

 

[UberCougars]

grok:

As of April 19, 2025, efforts to broker a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine remain ongoing but face significant challenges. Here’s a concise overview based on the latest available information:

- **Current Status**: Negotiations, primarily driven by the United States under President Donald Trump, have not yet produced a lasting agreement. Talks have included proposals for ceasefires, such as a 30-day truce covering land, sea, and air, which Ukraine accepted but Russia has not fully endorsed without conditions. Recent discussions in Saudi Arabia, Paris, and other locations have yielded limited progress, with both sides accusing each other of violating interim agreements, such as pauses on energy infrastructure strikes.[](https://www.reuters.com/world/us-ready-abandon-efforts-broker-russia-ukraine-peace-deal-rubio-says-2025-04-18/)[](https://www.cnn.com/2025/03/11/world/ukraine-us-talks-saudi-arabia-intl/index.html)

- **Russia’s Demands**: Russia, led by President Vladimir Putin, insists on "ironclad" guarantees, including Ukraine’s permanent neutrality, exclusion from NATO, recognition of Russian control over Crimea and four annexed regions (Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, Kherson), and limits on Ukraine’s military. Moscow has also pushed for broader geopolitical concessions, such as reduced U.S. and NATO military presence in Europe and the lifting of sanctions. Putin has framed these as necessary to address the “root causes” of the conflict, often citing NATO expansion and alleged threats to Russian-speaking populations.[](https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/russia-seeks-nato-exclusion-ukraines-peace-treaty-2025-03-16/)[](https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/putin-says-any-ukraine-peace-deal-must-ensure-russias-security-vows-no-retreat-2025-03-06/)[](https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/russia-says-it-is-not-easy-agree-ukraine-peace-deal-with-us-2025-04-15/)

- **Ukraine’s Position**: Ukraine, under President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, demands the full withdrawal of Russian forces, restoration of its 1991 borders (including Crimea and Donbas), prosecution of war crimes, and robust security guarantees, ideally through NATO membership or European backing. While Zelenskyy has shown openness to temporary concessions, such as ceding occupied territory diplomatically, Ukraine rejects any deal that compromises its sovereignty or leaves it vulnerable to future Russian aggression. Kyiv has expressed distrust in Russia’s intentions, citing past violations like the 1994 Budapest Memorandum.[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peace_negotiations_in_the_Russian_invasion_of_Ukraine)[](https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/blogs/ukrainealert/a-pragmatic-peace-plan-for-ukraine/)[](https://www.npr.org/2025/02/25/nx-s1-5306391/ukraine-official-ilhor-brusylo-trump-russia-europe)

- **U.S. Role and Frustrations**: The Trump administration has prioritized a swift resolution, viewing it as a key foreign policy goal. However, both Russia and Ukraine have frustrated U.S. efforts. Russia’s insistence on maximalist demands and Ukraine’s resistance to territorial concessions have stalled talks. Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have warned that the U.S. may abandon mediation if no progress is made soon, potentially within days, though the U.S. continues to provide intelligence and aid to Ukraine. A minerals deal with Kyiv is also under discussion to bolster Ukraine’s economy and U.S. support.[](https://www.reuters.com/world/us-ready-abandon-efforts-broker-russia-ukraine-peace-deal-rubio-says-2025-04-18/)[](https://www.reuters.com/world/trump-officials-eye-longer-road-ukraine-peace-frustration-mounts-2025-04-01/)[](https://www.cnn.com/2025/03/11/world/ukraine-us-talks-saudi-arabia-intl/index.html)

- **European Involvement**: European nations, including the UK, France, and Germany, are preparing to play a larger role, potentially deploying peacekeeping forces to enforce a deal. Discussions include air defense and troop deployments to secure Ukraine’s cities, though Russia opposes any NATO presence. Europe is also providing financial aid, with the EU committing €50 billion to Ukraine through 2027.[](https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/blogs/ukrainealert/a-pragmatic-peace-plan-for-ukraine/)[](https://www.dw.com/en/ukraine-updates-russia-says-it-cant-accept-us-peace-deal/live-72102593)

- **Challenges and Outlook**: The fundamental issue is the irreconcilable goals of both sides. Russia’s demands would effectively dismantle Ukraine’s sovereignty, while Ukraine’s insistence on full territorial restoration is unattainable without significant military or diplomatic leverage. Analysts suggest a ceasefire is more likely than a comprehensive peace deal in 2025, potentially resembling a “frozen conflict” like the Korean Peninsula. However, such an arrangement risks being fragile, with Russia potentially using it to regroup. Trump’s push for a deal by April 20, 2025, appears increasingly unrealistic, and some experts warn that a U.S. withdrawal from mediation could weaken Ukraine’s position.[](https://www.newsweek.com/will-there-russia-ukraine-peace-deal-2025-2001990)[](https://oilprice.com/Geopolitics/Europe/Is-a-Russia-Ukraine-Peace-Deal-Possible-in-2025.html)[](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-03-23/us-hopes-for-ukraine-peace-deal-soon-as-putin-seems-in-no-hurry)

- **Sentiment on X**: Posts on X reflect polarized views. Some users claim Ukraine faces a U.S. ultimatum to accept a deal or lose support, while others argue Russia is exploiting talks to gain concessions without committing to peace. These posts are inconclusive but highlight the contentious nature of the negotiations.[](https://x.com/Reuters/status/1913205873356210679)[](https://x.com/Reuters/status/1508786941231304709)

**Critical Perspective**: The establishment narrative, as reflected in Western media, often frames Russia as the sole aggressor and Ukraine as a victim defending its sovereignty. While Russia’s invasion is undeniably illegal under international law, the narrative sometimes glosses over complex historical factors, such as NATO’s eastward expansion, which Russia cites as a provocation. On the other hand, Putin’s demands for a “new world order” and Ukraine’s demilitarization suggest broader imperial ambitions, undermining claims of purely defensive motives. Ukraine’s reliance on Western aid also limits its negotiating power, potentially forcing compromises it publicly rejects. Both sides’ maximalist positions, combined with U.S. domestic political pressures, make a durable peace elusive.

 

[COUGinNCW]

grok:

As of April 19, 2025, efforts to broker a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine remain ongoing but face significant challenges. Here’s a concise overview based on the latest available information:

- **Current Status**: Negotiations, primarily driven by the United States under President Donald Trump, have not yet produced a lasting agreement. Talks have included proposals for ceasefires, such as a 30-day truce covering land, sea, and air, which Ukraine accepted but Russia has not fully endorsed without conditions. Recent discussions in Saudi Arabia, Paris, and other locations have yielded limited progress, with both sides accusing each other of violating interim agreements, such as pauses on energy infrastructure strikes.[](https://www.reuters.com/world/us-ready-abandon-efforts-broker-russia-ukraine-peace-deal-rubio-says-2025-04-18/)[](https://www.cnn.com/2025/03/11/world/ukraine-us-talks-saudi-arabia-intl/index.html)

- **Russia’s Demands**: Russia, led by President Vladimir Putin, insists on "ironclad" guarantees, including Ukraine’s permanent neutrality, exclusion from NATO, recognition of Russian control over Crimea and four annexed regions (Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, Kherson), and limits on Ukraine’s military. Moscow has also pushed for broader geopolitical concessions, such as reduced U.S. and NATO military presence in Europe and the lifting of sanctions. Putin has framed these as necessary to address the “root causes” of the conflict, often citing NATO expansion and alleged threats to Russian-speaking populations.[](https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/russia-seeks-nato-exclusion-ukraines-peace-treaty-2025-03-16/)[](https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/putin-says-any-ukraine-peace-deal-must-ensure-russias-security-vows-no-retreat-2025-03-06/)[](https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/russia-says-it-is-not-easy-agree-ukraine-peace-deal-with-us-2025-04-15/)

- **Ukraine’s Position**: Ukraine, under President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, demands the full withdrawal of Russian forces, restoration of its 1991 borders (including Crimea and Donbas), prosecution of war crimes, and robust security guarantees, ideally through NATO membership or European backing. While Zelenskyy has shown openness to temporary concessions, such as ceding occupied territory diplomatically, Ukraine rejects any deal that compromises its sovereignty or leaves it vulnerable to future Russian aggression. Kyiv has expressed distrust in Russia’s intentions, citing past violations like the 1994 Budapest Memorandum.[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peace_negotiations_in_the_Russian_invasion_of_Ukraine)[](https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/blogs/ukrainealert/a-pragmatic-peace-plan-for-ukraine/)[](https://www.npr.org/2025/02/25/nx-s1-5306391/ukraine-official-ilhor-brusylo-trump-russia-europe)

- **U.S. Role and Frustrations**: The Trump administration has prioritized a swift resolution, viewing it as a key foreign policy goal. However, both Russia and Ukraine have frustrated U.S. efforts. Russia’s insistence on maximalist demands and Ukraine’s resistance to territorial concessions have stalled talks. Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have warned that the U.S. may abandon mediation if no progress is made soon, potentially within days, though the U.S. continues to provide intelligence and aid to Ukraine. A minerals deal with Kyiv is also under discussion to bolster Ukraine’s economy and U.S. support.[](https://www.reuters.com/world/us-ready-abandon-efforts-broker-russia-ukraine-peace-deal-rubio-says-2025-04-18/)[](https://www.reuters.com/world/trump-officials-eye-longer-road-ukraine-peace-frustration-mounts-2025-04-01/)[](https://www.cnn.com/2025/03/11/world/ukraine-us-talks-saudi-arabia-intl/index.html)

- **European Involvement**: European nations, including the UK, France, and Germany, are preparing to play a larger role, potentially deploying peacekeeping forces to enforce a deal. Discussions include air defense and troop deployments to secure Ukraine’s cities, though Russia opposes any NATO presence. Europe is also providing financial aid, with the EU committing €50 billion to Ukraine through 2027.[](https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/blogs/ukrainealert/a-pragmatic-peace-plan-for-ukraine/)[](https://www.dw.com/en/ukraine-updates-russia-says-it-cant-accept-us-peace-deal/live-72102593)

- **Challenges and Outlook**: The fundamental issue is the irreconcilable goals of both sides. Russia’s demands would effectively dismantle Ukraine’s sovereignty, while Ukraine’s insistence on full territorial restoration is unattainable without significant military or diplomatic leverage. Analysts suggest a ceasefire is more likely than a comprehensive peace deal in 2025, potentially resembling a “frozen conflict” like the Korean Peninsula. However, such an arrangement risks being fragile, with Russia potentially using it to regroup. Trump’s push for a deal by April 20, 2025, appears increasingly unrealistic, and some experts warn that a U.S. withdrawal from mediation could weaken Ukraine’s position.[](https://www.newsweek.com/will-there-russia-ukraine-peace-deal-2025-2001990)[](https://oilprice.com/Geopolitics/Europe/Is-a-Russia-Ukraine-Peace-Deal-Possible-in-2025.html)[](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-03-23/us-hopes-for-ukraine-peace-deal-soon-as-putin-seems-in-no-hurry)

- **Sentiment on X**: Posts on X reflect polarized views. Some users claim Ukraine faces a U.S. ultimatum to accept a deal or lose support, while others argue Russia is exploiting talks to gain concessions without committing to peace. These posts are inconclusive but highlight the contentious nature of the negotiations.[](https://x.com/Reuters/status/1913205873356210679)[](https://x.com/Reuters/status/1508786941231304709)

**Critical Perspective**: The establishment narrative, as reflected in Western media, often frames Russia as the sole aggressor and Ukraine as a victim defending its sovereignty. While Russia’s invasion is undeniably illegal under international law, the narrative sometimes glosses over complex historical factors, such as NATO’s eastward expansion, which Russia cites as a provocation. On the other hand, Putin’s demands for a “new world order” and Ukraine’s demilitarization suggest broader imperial ambitions, undermining claims of purely defensive motives. Ukraine’s reliance on Western aid also limits its negotiating power, potentially forcing compromises it publicly rejects. Both sides’ maximalist positions, combined with U.S. domestic political pressures, make a durable peace elusive.

Trump should have consulted Grok before he promised to end the war the day before he even took office. Maybe should have asked Grok about the impact of his Tariff policy as well instead of just winging it.

 

[UberCougars]

You should stop pretending you know what’s going on behind closed doors.

 

[BiggsCoug]

You should stop pretending you know what’s going on behind closed doors.

So should you. Is break time over? Back to making fries for you.

 

[UberCougars]

I don’t pretend to know what’s going on in the US/European Union/ Russia/Ukraine negotiations.

That’s your prescient Comrade thread starter cheering for the United States to lose.

I’m just an observer. I will wait for the agreed upon deal.

 

[Coug90]

Trump should have consulted Grok before he promised to end the war the day before he even took office. Maybe should have asked Grok about the impact of his Tariff policy as well instead of just winging it.

Hey Uber. Ask Grok again how likely it is Trump is a Russian asset…

 

[WillieThePimp]

Ask Grok again how likely it is Trump is a Russian asset…

Id bet the likelihood increases from the original 75-85% with the zero tariff on Russian goods and the Russia/Ukraine negotiation clown show.

 

[Coug90]

Id bet the likelihood increases from the original 75-85% with the zero tariff on Russian goods and the Russia/Ukraine negotiation clown show.

The silence from Putin is telling. When someone is making a fool of themselves just sit back and let them do it. Trump the master negotiator? 😂😂

 

[UberCougars]

Wazzu watch has a football message board that sometimes delves into political discussion.

Why do some contributors always root for the United States to fail and always seem to back the away team?



The sentiment you're describing—where some contributors on the WazzuWatch football message board appear to consistently root against the United States or support the "away team" in political or sports discussions—can stem from a mix of psychological, cultural, and social factors. Since I don’t have direct access to the WazzuWatch message board posts, I’ll address this based on general patterns observed in online forums, including sports-related ones like those linked to Washington State University’s Cougars fanbase, and the broader dynamics of political discourse. Here’s a breakdown of potential reasons for this behavior, grounded in critical analysis:[](https://washingtonstate.forums.rivals.com/forums/the-cougar-lair.8/)[](https://washingtonstate.forums.rivals.com/aud-feeds/)

### 1. **Contrarianism and Anti-Establishment Sentiment**
- **Why It Happens**: Some individuals adopt contrarian stances to challenge the dominant narrative or mainstream patriotism, especially in politically charged discussions. Rooting against the U.S. or supporting the "away team" (whether in sports or geopolitics) can be a way to signal dissent against perceived American exceptionalism, government policies, or cultural norms they disagree with.
- **Context on WazzuWatch**: Sports forums like WazzuWatch often attract diverse fans, including those who use the platform to vent frustrations beyond football. Political threads can become outlets for expressing anti-establishment views, especially if contributors feel alienated by U.S. policies, media, or societal trends. For example, dissatisfaction with domestic issues (e.g., economic inequality, foreign policy) might manifest as cheering for underdogs or foreign teams as a symbolic rejection of "Team USA."[](https://washingtonstate.forums.rivals.com/forums/the-cougar-lair.8/)
- **Critical Angle**: This doesn’t always mean they want the U.S. to "fail" but could reflect a desire to critique or humble what they see as an overconfident or flawed system. However, it can come off as reflexive negativity if not articulated thoughtfully.

### 2. **Ideological Leanings and Global Perspectives**
- **Why It Happens**: Contributors with progressive, internationalist, or critical ideological views may sympathize more with foreign perspectives or underdog teams, especially if they perceive the U.S. as a hegemonic power. This can align with academic or activist critiques of American imperialism, capitalism, or cultural dominance, leading to a tendency to root for "the other side."
- **Context on WazzuWatch**: Washington State University’s fanbase, based in a relatively progressive region like the Pacific Northwest, might include voices who lean left or embrace globalized worldviews. In political discussions, these contributors might back foreign teams or nations to highlight issues like U.S. foreign policy missteps (e.g., interventions in the Middle East) or to champion causes like anti-colonialism.[](https://www.reddit.com/r/wsucougars/)
- **Critical Angle**: This stance can sometimes oversimplify complex issues, ignoring the flaws of the "away team" or foreign entities they support. It may also alienate other fans who see sports as a unifying, patriotic space, leading to heated debates.[](https://talk.economistfoundation.org/festivals/festival-2024/the-enhanced-games-is-doping-fair/sports-and-politics/)

### 3. **Sports Fandom Dynamics: Underdog Appeal**
- **Why It Happens**: In sports, rooting for the underdog or away team is common, especially among fans who enjoy defying expectations or dislike dominant teams. This can spill into political discussions, where the U.S. is cast as the "Goliath" and smaller nations or teams as "David."
- **Context on WazzuWatch**: As a Cougars fan forum, WazzuWatch likely has users who relish WSU’s underdog status in college football, especially against powerhouses like Washington or Oregon. This mindset might carry over to political threads, where cheering for the "away team" (e.g., a foreign nation or non-U.S. athlete) mirrors their sports fandom’s rebellious streak.[](https://washingtonstate.forums.rivals.com/aud-feeds/)
- **Critical Angle**: While underdog support is a natural part of sports culture, applying it to geopolitics can lead to inconsistent reasoning, like overlooking the away team’s own issues (e.g., human rights abuses in a favored foreign nation). It can also feel performative if driven more by reflex than principle.

### 4. **Polarization and Reactionary Posturing**
- **Why It Happens**: Online forums amplify polarization, where users stake out extreme positions to provoke or differentiate themselves. Rooting against the U.S. can be a reaction to hyper-patriotic rhetoric from other posters, creating a cycle of escalating takes. This is especially true in mixed spaces like sports boards, where political talk isn’t the primary focus but can hijack discussions.[](https://talk.economistfoundation.org/festivals/festival-2024/the-enhanced-games-is-doping-fair/sports-and-politics/)
- **Context on WazzuWatch**: The forum’s rules emphasize keeping discussions PG-13 and constructive, but political threads can still get heated. If some users post strongly pro-U.S. views, others might counter with anti-U.S. sentiment to push back, even if their actual beliefs are more nuanced. This dynamic is common in sports forums, where tribalism (e.g., Cougars vs. Huskies) bleeds into ideological battles.[](https://washingtonstate.forums.rivals.com/forums/the-cougar-lair.8/)
- **Critical Angle**: This behavior often prioritizes "owning" opponents over substantive debate, reducing complex issues to team-like rivalries. It can also reflect a broader cultural divide where both sides talk past each other, entrenching their positions.

### 5. **Cultural and Historical Critiques**
- **Why It Happens**: Some contributors may root against the U.S. due to historical grievances or cultural critiques, such as the legacy of colonialism, systemic racism, or economic disparities. They might see cheering for the away team as a way to align with marginalized groups or nations they view as oppressed by U.S. influence.
- **Context on WazzuWatch**: While primarily a football forum, WazzuWatch’s political discussions could attract users who bring up these themes, especially in a university setting where academic ideas (e.g., postcolonial theory) might shape perspectives. For instance, a user might support a foreign team to draw attention to issues like U.S. sanctions or military actions.[](https://www.reddit.com/r/wsucougars/)
- **Critical Angle**: These critiques can be valid but risk becoming one-sided if they ignore the U.S.’s positive contributions or the complexities of global politics. On a sports board, such heavy topics might also derail football-focused camaraderie, frustrating other users.

### 6. **Trolling or Attention-Seeking**
- **Why It Happens**: Some users might root against the U.S. or back the away team simply to provoke reactions, stir drama, or gain attention. Online anonymity lowers the stakes for controversial takes, and sports forums are prime spots for trolling due to their passionate user base.
- **Context on WazzuWatch**: The forum’s emphasis on “no flaming” suggests moderators try to curb this, but political threads can still attract provocateurs. A user might post anti-U.S. sentiments to bait patriotic fans, knowing it’ll spark replies.[](https://washingtonstate.forums.rivals.com/forums/the-cougar-lair.8/)
- **Critical Angle**: Trolling undermines genuine discussion and can make the forum less welcoming. It’s worth distinguishing between sincere critiques and bad-faith posts, though intent is hard to gauge online.

### Why It Persists on WazzuWatch
- **Forum Culture**: WazzuWatch’s “The Cougar Lair” is a space for passionate WSU fans, but its open-ended nature allows political tangents. Unlike strictly moderated subreddits (e.g., r/utahfootball’s focus on team-specific talk), WazzuWatch seems to tolerate broader discussions, letting political hot takes thrive.[](https://washingtonstate.forums.rivals.com/forums/the-cougar-lair.8/)[](https://www.reddit.com/r/utahfootball/)
- **Sports-Politics Overlap**: Sports and politics often intersect, as seen in debates over athletes’ activism or national pride in international competitions. On a college football board, where fandom ties to identity, these overlaps can amplify ideological divides.[](https://talk.economistfoundation.org/festivals/festival-2024/the-enhanced-games-is-doping-fair/sports-and-politics/)[](https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/23750472.2020.1723437)
- **Echo Chambers**: Online forums can become echo chambers, where a few vocal users with anti-U.S. leanings reinforce each other’s views, making their stance seem more prevalent than it is.

### Critical Reflection
While some contributors might appear to “always” root against the U.S., this could be an overgeneralization. People’s views are often more nuanced than forum posts suggest, and cherry-picked hot takes can distort perceptions. That said, the behavior you’re noticing likely reflects a mix of genuine ideological differences, sports fandom quirks, and online posturing. It’s also worth noting that sports forums aren’t ideal for nuanced political debate—emotions run high, and brevity favors bold, divisive takes over careful reasoning.

If this trend frustrates you, engaging directly (but respectfully) with those users on WazzuWatch might clarify their motives—some may be open to dialogue, while others might just be trolling. Alternatively, sticking to football-focused threads could sidestep the political noise.

 

[Coug90]

Wazzu watch has a football message board that sometimes delves into political discussion.

Why do some contributors always root for the United States to fail and always seem to back the away team?

Rooting? I can root for the Mariners and still recognize their ownership cares more about profit than winning and 98% of the time they will be a mediocre ballclub at best that can’t hit for a piss.

I’m rooting for America which is why I’m anticipating trumps final F up that will get him out of office for good so we can start to heal as a country and rebuild the international relationships that have strengthened our nation for the last 80 years.

Trumps a failure and never had any business being president. It’s obvious to everyone in the world aside from the 75 million dunce hats here and our adversaries who are laughing their asses off while he F’s up our country.

 

[dgibbons]

The silence from Putin is telling. When someone is making a fool of themselves just sit back and let them do it. Trump the master negotiator? 😂😂

Aren’t you cheering for more dead Ukrainians? Weakening Russia has been super cheap as you’ve posted here. Not cheap for Ukraine, but I digress.

 

[UberCougars]

Aren’t you cheering for more dead Ukrainians? Weakening Russia has been super cheap as you’ve posted here. Not cheap for Ukraine, but I digress.

Anything that shortens the time until Impeachment.

 

[Coug90]

Aren’t you cheering for more dead Ukrainians? Weakening Russia has been super cheap as you’ve posted here. Not cheap for Ukraine, but I digress.

You’re cheering for a Russian asset so seems you enjoy seeing dead Ukrainians yourself.

Trumps wiped out more $$ with his trade war than will ever be spent weakening Russia.

This is getting easier the further Trump fails, not that it was ever that hard to begin with.

 

[Flatlandcoug]

Aren’t you cheering for more dead Ukrainians? Weakening Russia has been super cheap as you’ve posted here. Not cheap for Ukraine, but I digress.

Weird that Ukraine hasn't surrendered. It's almost like they want to remain a sovereign nation. But hey, what do you care about what Ukrainians want? You're worried about #ownthelibs. You don't give a sh!t about freedom, democracy and all that boring BS that our founding fathers fought a war to secure for our nation.

 

[Coug90]

Anything that shortens the time until Impeachment.

Gee uber sounds like a fan of a losing team who’s angry at fans who are waiting until the head coach gets fired.

 

[Flatlandcoug]

You should stop pretending you know what’s going on behind closed doors.

Yeah.....you should.....

 

[dgibbons]

You’re cheering for a Russian asset so seems you enjoy seeing dead Ukrainians yourself.

Trumps wiped out more $$ with his trade war than will ever be spent weakening Russia.

This is getting easier the further Trump fails, not that it was ever that hard to begin with.

Why are you changing the subject? More dead Ukrainians = celebration, right?

 

[dgibbons]

Weird that Ukraine hasn't surrendered. It's almost like they want to remain a sovereign nation. But hey, what do you care about what Ukrainians want? You're worried about #ownthelibs. You don't give a sh!t about freedom, democracy and all that boring BS that our founding fathers fought a war to secure for our nation.

You and 90 celebrating? Your bloodlust looks to be close.

 

[Loyal Coug1]

Why are you changing the subject? More dead Ukrainians = celebration, right?

You and 90 celebrating? Your bloodlust looks to be close.

What is your fixation with dead Ukrainians? Their country was brutally invaded for no good reason. They are fighting for the survival of their country and homeland. Are they supposed to just give up? Is that what you would do if the US was invaded Gibby? Just give up? WTF is wrong with you?

 

[WillieThePimp]

What is your fixation with dead Ukrainians? Their country was brutally invaded for no good reason. They are fighting for the survival of their country and homeland. Are they supposed to just give up? Is that what you would do if the US was invaded Gibby? Just give up? WTF is wrong with you?

Dribblins is deflecting because he’s got nothing in response to Dear Leader and his little monkey Marco getting schooled by Putin.

He’s regurgitating another nonsensical argument made by FOX talking heads.

 

[dgibbons]

Dribblins is deflecting because he’s got nothing in response to Dear Leader and his little monkey Marco getting schooled by Putin.

He’s regurgitating another nonsensical argument made by FOX talking heads.

Just to be clear, you and 90 have posted on this board that sending weapons to Ukraine is a cheap way to weaken Russia. Not cheap for Ukraine. But you must be gleeful as well.

 

[dgibbons]

What is your fixation with dead Ukrainians? Their country was brutally invaded for no good reason. They are fighting for the survival of their country and homeland. Are they supposed to just give up? Is that what you would do if the US was invaded Gibby? Just give up? WTF is wrong with you?

What is your fixation with more Ukrainians dying?

 

[WillieThePimp]

Just to be clear, you and 90 have posted on this board that sending weapons to Ukraine is a cheap way to weaken Russia. Not cheap for Ukraine. But you must be gleeful as well.

I’d gleefully pay your air fare to Russia so you can enlist.

 

[Coug90]

What is your fixation with dead Ukrainians? Their country was brutally invaded for no good reason. They are fighting for the survival of their country and homeland. Are they supposed to just give up? Is that what you would do if the US was invaded Gibby? Just give up? WTF is wrong with you?

Only argument you’ve got when you know you’re cooked. Gibbs way of waving the white flag.

 

[dgibbons]

I’d gleefully pay your air fare to Russia so you can enlist.

That makes no sense. You’re one of the posters on this board that wants more Ukrainians to die. Your posts make clear your ego and now your desire to criticize Trump is far more important than Ukrainian lives. Strange, but true.

 

[dgibbons]

Only argument you’ve got when you know you’re cooked. Gibbs way of waving the white flag.

Are you now denying that you posted the war in Ukraine was a cheap way to weaken the big bad Putin? Totally worth your tax payer dollars. Not cheap for Ukraine, in lives or treasure. But who cares about them, right?

 

[WillieThePimp]

That makes no sense. You’re one of the posters on this board that wants more Ukrainians to die. Your posts make clear your ego and now your desire to criticize Trump is far more important than Ukrainian lives. Strange, but true.

It makes perfect sense.

What makes no sense is you whining about some posters allegedly disliking the United States acting like a super power when supplying an enemy of our enemy with weapons and training is exactly what super powers do. I guess you were referring to yourself.

 

[Observer11]

Are you now denying that you posted the war in Ukraine was a cheap way to weaken the big bad Putin? Totally worth your tax payer dollars. Not cheap for Ukraine, in lives or treasure. But who cares about them, right?

Driving oil prices into the 30s would have the same effect on Putin but a fraction of the dead.

Like between 2016-2020.

 

[Loyal Coug1]

Just to be clear, you and 90 have posted on this board that sending weapons to Ukraine is a cheap way to weaken Russia. Not cheap for Ukraine. But you must be gleeful as well.

What is your fixation with more Ukrainians dying?

That makes no sense. You’re one of the posters on this board that wants more Ukrainians to die. Your posts make clear your ego and now your desire to criticize Trump is far more important than Ukrainian lives. Strange, but true.

Are you now denying that you posted the war in Ukraine was a cheap way to weaken the big bad Putin? Totally worth your tax payer dollars. Not cheap for Ukraine, in lives or treasure. But who cares about them, right?

Obsessing today Gibby? Wife have a headache again for the 90th night in a row? (OK, rude personal attack, but probably true. Loyal knows these things).

To point - what is your solution? Ukraine gives up a huge swath of their country and gets no NATO, little protection and WTF else Putin wants? In fairness I would drop Crimea of I was Zelensky. That ship sailed a decade ago.

So spell it out for us Gibby, or kindly STFU.

That said, Ukraine has asked for weapons and ammo. "I don't need a ride, I need ammo". Sound familiar? The US and Europe has given them weapons. They need more. The US is not forcing them down their throat. The poor bastards are fighting for their country and lives, and your dipshits in Washington argue about it. While safe and secure in the US. Except the brown ones.

If my home and country were invaded, I would fight to the death and die with one of my guns in my hand. $5 sez our pal Gibby has never shot, and certainly doesn't own, one. Wifey might - he's no protection for her. (Oops, 2 personal attacks in one post - desperate times these days....)

Finally, perhaps we should ponder the words of Winston Churchill (below) in England's darkest hour. And sidenote, pretty sure that the US was sending major aid, weapons and planes to England back then.

Churchill after Dunkirk:
"We shall go on to the end, we shall fight in France, we shall fight on the seas and oceans, we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air, we shall defend our Island, whatever the cost may be, we shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills; we shall never surrender,

Kinda sounds like Zelensky and Ukraine to me.

 

[BSpike76]

Driving oil prices into the 30s would have the same effect on Putin but a fraction of the dead.

Like between 2016-2020.

The only time oil got close to the 30s in that time was the pandemic collapse in early 2020, when you could briefly get paid to take a rail car full. Other than that it bounced between 60 and 90.

 

[COUGinNCW]

Driving oil prices into the 30s would have the same effect on Putin but a fraction of the dead.

Like between 2016-2020.

The only time oil was below $40/barrel in Trump 1.0 was the pandemic. Prices were higher in 2018 than they are now but you may be on to something.

Trump 4D chess - destroy the economy and send oil prices into the toilet. Russia goes broke and can’t fund their invasion of Ukraine. Trump and his billionaire buddies get to buy everything up for 40 cents on the dollar. Dudes a frikkin genius.

 

[Coug90]

Are you now denying that you posted the war in Ukraine was a cheap way to weaken the big bad Putin? Totally worth your tax payer dollars. Not cheap for Ukraine, in lives or treasure. But who cares about them, right?

Gibbons. I’m going to do something for you but only you. Because I respect your intellect. Now this may take a bit to digest so brace yourself…Putin actually attacked Ukraine, not Biden or Obama. Dead Ukrainians? That’s on Putin. Trump? Not saving Ukrainians from dying, only Putin can do that by not killing them.

As for “costs”, this trade war is costing us what, $3T give or take? Ukraine has been picking change out of our couch cushions by comparison.

Time for some cute quips now!!!

 

[Observer11]

The only time oil was below $40/barrel in Trump 1.0 was the pandemic. Prices were higher in 2018 than they are now but you may be on to something.

Trump 4D chess - destroy the economy and send oil prices into the toilet. Russia goes broke and can’t fund their invasion of Ukraine. Trump and his billionaire buddies get to buy everything up for 40 cents on the dollar. Dudes a frikkin genius.

Forgive me for being off a year. I was actually working in oil and gas when the price dropped into the 30s in 2016. It was almost impossible to operate profitably in the US at that price point. The price did float back up later that year.

This is actually a decent article on oil prices and the effects on everyday life vs strategic consideration. Putin isn’t nearly as aggressive when oil prices are low. He can’t afford to be and still fund the rest of his government. But at a certain price point, he’s got house money to play with.

What’s the Ideal Oil Price for a U.S. President? | OilPrice.com

The chance of the U.S. economy being in recession within two years of an upcoming election is dramatically increased as the oil price rises.

oilprice.com

 

[95coug]

Forgive me for being off a year. I was actually working in oil and gas when the price dropped into the 30s in 2016. It was almost impossible to operate profitably in the US at that price point. The price did float back up later that year.

This is actually a decent article on oil prices and the effects on everyday life vs strategic consideration. Putin isn’t nearly as aggressive when oil prices are low. He can’t afford to be and still fund the rest of his government. But at a certain price point, he’s got house money to play with.

What’s the Ideal Oil Price for a U.S. President? | OilPrice.com

The chance of the U.S. economy being in recession within two years of an upcoming election is dramatically increased as the oil price rises.

oilprice.com

That crash was a good lesson in investing. I “bought the dip.” With oil prices down, petroleum stocks followed. I bought into a couple of companies that did exploration, drilling, and tooling. Figured that when prices rebounded, so would they, and I’d make easy money.

But…prices stayed too low for too long. All 3 of the companies I bought went under.

Always found it interesting that even when the rest of the industry was tanking, the big companies like chevron and Philips didn’t lose much value, and continued posting profits.

 

[Observer11]

That crash was a good lesson in investing. I “bought the dip.” With oil prices down, petroleum stocks followed. I bought into a couple of companies that did exploration, drilling, and tooling. Figured that when prices rebounded, so would they, and I’d make easy money.

But…prices stayed too low for too long. All 3 of the companies I bought went under.

Always found it interesting that even when the rest of the industry was tanking, the big companies like chevron and Philips didn’t lose much value, and continued posting profits.

The big oil companies have scale and are heavily hedged. Oil and gas accounting is pretty interesting and the big boys have it dialed in on how they manage their balance sheet.

Smaller producers just hanging on for dear life and hope to outlast the downtimes.

Haven’t been in the game for several years now but I would suspect the big boys are ramping up exploration and drilling right now. Trump’s agenda is to drill baby drill so it will take about 12 to 18 months to see significant production gains once new wells are on line.

I also suspect Trump will firm up the strategic peteoleum reserve (SPR) which should drive prices up a bit just due to supply availability. Biden sucked it dry as an election year ploy but it needs to be returned to 2020. Until such time as the SPR is replenished, the remaining oil market will remain distorted. The big boys will drill based on guaranteed pricing from the government for that purpose. Ultimately it will all settle to a true market price. But not until the SPR is back to optimum level.

I’m pretty sure the same things will be happening in the mining sector but that’s definitely not financial advice. Gold is running crazy right now and no signs of easing up. The dearth of rare earth’s is a big concern short term but there are a lot of companies ramping up exploration efforts right now. From there it’s another 3 to 5 years (maybe more) before getting from identified resource to actual mining. Buyer beware on bargains there but if you make the right pick, there’s money to be made.

 

[COUGinNCW]

The industry doesn’t want to drill baby drill. They want increased demand and stable production.

 

[Observer11]

The industry doesn’t want to drill baby drill. They want increased demand and stable production.

You have to drill to replace wells that are nearing the end of their useful life. Plus the tax incentives for exploration and drilling costs are a big offset to the profits referenced above.

 

[BSpike76]

The only time oil was below $40/barrel in Trump 1.0 was the pandemic. Prices were higher in 2018 than they are now but you may be on to something.

Trump 4D chess - destroy the economy and send oil prices into the toilet. Russia goes broke and can’t fund their invasion of Ukraine. Trump and his billionaire buddies get to buy everything up for 40 cents on the dollar. Dudes a frikkin genius.

The price was in the 30s in early 2016. Trump doesn’t get credit for that, unless you as dumb as O11.