Related regarding “language” and “gaffes”. Putin and Lavrov both obviously speak and understand English quite well. They always speak Russian, through a translator, for two basic reasons. 1. Speaking Russian supports “nationalism”. and 2. IF their is a “gaffe” that comes out, they can just blame it on the translator!!
Statecraft often succeeds more with what’s NOT said, or said in “errors” denied, but acted upon, than “straight talk”.
We used to get a LOT more information by playing “stupid” with “detainees”, and letting them blab away, than by always being articulate and to the point. It’s why even after Miranda, good interrogators could get lots of information, and even confessions, even when lawyers WERE present at questioning.
Related regarding “language” and “gaffes”. Putin and Lavrov both obviously speak and understand English quite well. They always speak Russian, through a translator, for two basic reasons. 1. Speaking Russian supports “nationalism”. and 2. IF their is a “gaffe” that comes out, they can just blame it on the translator!!
Statecraft often succeeds more with what’s NOT said, or said in “errors” denied, but acted upon, than “straight talk”.
We used to get a LOT more information by playing “stupid” with “detainees”, and letting them blab away, than by always being articulate and to the point. It’s why even after Miranda, good interrogators could get lots of information, and even confessions, even when lawyers WERE present at questioning.