### Bob Woodward's New Book Reveals Secret Trump-Putin Communications and Biden's Tensions with Netanyahu

In his latest book, "War," esteemed journalist Bob Woodward uncovers a series of private communications between former President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, including Trump sending COVID-19 test machines to Putin during the pandemic. These revelations add layers to the ongoing scrutiny of Trump's relations with Russia.

According to Woodward, Trump and Putin have had as many as seven private phone conversations since Trump left office. One instance included an early 2024 call from Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort, where Trump reportedly asked an aide to exit the room for privacy. Steven Cheung, Trump's communications director, has strongly denied these claims, branding Woodward as suffering from "Trump Derangement Syndrome."

Woodward also details a significant but secretive act where Trump sent COVID-19 test machines to Putin when the virus was rapidly spreading in Russia. Though initially advised by Putin to keep this move confidential to avoid backlash, Trump allegedly agreed to the secrecy reluctantly. It is known that the Trump administration sent medical supplies to several countries, including Russia, in May 2020.

Further, Woodward delves into Trump's strained relationship with the U.S. intelligence community, stemming from the 2016 presidential campaign. Trump had controversially encouraged Russia to find and release Hillary Clinton's deleted emails, resulting in U.S. intelligence agencies later confirming Russian interference aimed at aiding Trump. Despite an extensive investigation by Robert Mueller finding no conspiracy, Trump's rapport with Putin has remained controversial.

The book also sheds light on more recent political frustrations. Trump’s critique of U.S. support for Ukraine amidst Russian aggression and his praise for Putin's "smart" actions underscore his controversial stance. Additionally, Trump’s continued false claims about the 2020 election results have been attributed by Woodward to a "cult of personality" encouraged by his associates.

On another front, Woodward captures the tense relationship between President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Biden's frustrations with Netanyahu came to a head this past spring over the handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict, leading to a private, profanity-laden outburst where Biden accused Netanyahu of dishonesty and felt compelled to threaten withholding U.S. weapons shipments.

Woodward's book also mentions interactions involving Lindsey Graham and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, highlighting the use of numerous burner phones, including ones labeled for Trump and Jake Sullivan, Biden's national security adviser.

These revelations offer a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes dynamics of international relations and personal grievances among world leaders, further complicating the political landscape as new elections loom.