With ‘Tremendous’ Deals at Stake, Trump Is Bringing Russia in From the Cold

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by Anton Troianovski

February 19, 2026

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President Trump’s administration is showing signs of warming ties with Russia despite ongoing tensions over Ukraine. Since Trump took office, Russian officials have hinted at lucrative investment opportunities, which are now starting to attract Western businesses. A Texas investor with connections to the Trump family, Gentry Beach, has signed a deal with one of Russia’s largest energy companies to develop natural gas in Alaska. This move highlights how Trump is cautiously exploring economic partnerships with Russia, even as sanctions remain in place and the conflict in Ukraine continues. The Kremlin has been actively promoting its business potential, claiming that investment opportunities in Russia could reach $14 trillion—an unusually high figure designed to entice global investors. Beach’s deal, which he insists is purely business-driven, suggests that these offers are beginning to resonate with American entrepreneurs. The agreement with the Russian energy giant was finalized last fall and focuses on natural gas projects in Alaska, a region with significant untapped resources. While this development underscores Trump’s transactional approach to diplomacy, it also raises questions about the feasibility of such partnerships given ongoing sanctions and Russia’s aggressive actions in Ukraine. Despite these challenges, the administration is signaling a willingness to explore economic deals that could benefit both nations. However, experts caution that any meaningful progress will depend on Russia’s readiness to address international concerns and reduce tensions. This shift in economic engagement with Russia has broader implications for global business and geopolitics. While some investors see potential profits in these emerging opportunities, others remain skeptical about the long-term viability of such partnerships. The situation highlights the delicate balance between economic interests and political realities, as Trump seeks to leverage deals that could bring significant financial gains while navigating a complex international landscape. In summary, the cautious reopening of economic ties between the U.S. and Russia under Trump’s leadership is driven by mutual business interests, despite ongoing conflicts and sanctions. While the potential for massive investments in Russia is being touted, the actual impact of these partnerships will depend on how both nations navigate their diplomatic challenges. This story underscores the intersection of politics, business, and global relations, making it a key point of interest for those following international news and economic developments.

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/19/2026