If Trump doesn't get the sanctions lifted he may found out how dirty Putin and company really do play.  The Times has not said who gave them the emails.  The whole story maybe a Russian shot across Trump's bow.  There is the Steele dossier which conveniently came out after Trump was elected. This could be a reminder of just how ugly it could get for Mr Donald Trump Sr. Putin will only take Trump's fawning for so long.  He wants results.