Pro-Putin supporters excited over exclusive interview amid growing tensions

News of Tucker Carlson’s upcoming interview with Russian President Vladimir Putin has stirred a mixture of anticipation and concern, particularly among supporters of Putin who see it as a potential catalyst for internal conflict within the United States.

Carlson’s confirmation of the interview, touted as the first by a Western journalist since the onset of the Ukraine war in 2022, has been met with enthusiasm from pro-Putin broadcasters. Some have even gone so far as to suggest that airing the interview could incite a “civil war” in the US, underscoring the polarizing nature of the event.

Political scientist Sergey Mikheyev highlighted the significance of the interview, suggesting that its broadcast in the US could shatter the “informational blockade” surrounding Putin. He emphasized the potential for Putin’s words to captivate American audiences, eclipsing the performances of domestic politicians.

Russian presenters have rallied behind Carlson, incorporating clips from his shows into their propaganda efforts and expressing support for his endeavours. The anticipation surrounding Carlson’s Moscow visit has been palpable, with hosts cheekily remarking on the technological luxuries enjoyed by Americans compared to Russians.

Despite the excitement, concerns have been raised about the potential risks associated with the interview. BBC Moscow correspondent Steve Rosenberg noted previous unsuccessful attempts to secure an interview with Putin, highlighting the rarity of such access.

Critics, including CNN’s Christiane Amanpour, have questioned Carlson’s portrayal of his efforts to secure the interview, suggesting that journalists have long sought access to Putin without success. Carlson’s claims of interference by the US government, specifically alleging NSA surveillance of his communications, have drawn scrutiny and rebuttals from intelligence agencies.

As anticipation builds for Carlson’s exclusive interview with Putin, the potential implications for US-Russian relations and domestic politics remain uncertain. The interview promises to be a pivotal moment in the ongoing geopolitical landscape, with ramifications that could reverberate far beyond the confines of the interview itself