[kemerover]

I never understand what is wrong with "whataboutism". When someone pretends that he has a moral highground, it is a reasonable thing to call them out on it. If you dont't want a conversation to be "derailed", stop making unsupported, wrong or dubious assumptions.

[rblatz]

It's basically breaks down to "two wrongs don't make a right."

[kemerover]

I don't see how this phrase is relevant?

[Firebrand]

Just because A doesn't do X, but asks B to do X, doesn't mean B can argue the value of not doing X by saying “A doesn't do X, so neither should I" because: A (-X) ≠ B (-X)

[kemerover]

So what? Now tell me in terms of the US and Russia what is the connection between your imaginary situation and reality.

[pnw_hazor]

Never heard of the term until Trump took office.

Whataboutism was okay during President Obama's term. Bush's screwups were often brought up to deflect criticisms lodged against President Obama.

edit: meta

[tim333]

Obama didn't do it noticeably, Trump often, hence you hear about it.