That’s because international relations often depend dramatically on personal relationships. Even though Donald Trump is no longer the President of the United States, his time in that office lingers on, profoundly affecting global dynamics. On August 22, 2025, Trump unironically posted a picture that Russian President Vladimir Putin had presented him with. This moment was telling of the president’s often convoluted relationships with other world leaders. The critics rose to call Trump’s dealings a “chronically unhealthy ‘special relationship.’” They stress the chaotic and at times violent character of his foreign policy.
Trump’s concern for the fate of Jair Bolsonaro, his hard-right predecessor in Brazil, underscores his commitment to supporting like-minded leaders. Bolsonaro’s ongoing political woes have caught Trump’s eye, out of a desire to shore up needed friendly alliances that match up with his ideology. Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been making efforts to ingratiate himself with Trump, recognizing the significance of their bilateral ties.
In a not-so-surprising move, Trump was the first Republican president to take an unequivocal stand against Iran. This decision followed repeated U.S. officials’ warnings to dissuade him from pursuing military action. This shocking decision is a prime example of how Trump has chosen his personal instincts above all to subvert traditional diplomatic guardrails. He just issued some of the most scathing attacks yet on China. He claimed that if the U.S. ceases purchasing their products, “China will have new partners.” This statement suggests that a new era may be dawning for global trade. Countries are increasingly willing to alter their economic plans as tensions escalate.
In the past, Trump has been a tough man to make deals with, and so many world leaders have had to tread lightly around his unpredictable antics. Beyond upsetting China, when he took the controversial step of imposing 50% tariffs on those countries, the world reacted vigorously and with defiance. His otherwise tight friendship with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu soured following a bitter falling-out over Gaza. Trump’s comments about French President Emmanuel Macron further illustrate his confrontational style. He labeled Macron a publicity-seeker who “always gets it wrong,” showcasing a penchant for public criticism.
This month, Trump surprised many when he declared his admiration for Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum. With the utmost conviction he said, “I really like her.” This comment came alongside threats to send troops into Mexico in pursuit of drug cartels. That’s what makes it an ideal depiction of the contradictory nature of Trump’s diplomacy.
Trump is already preparing for his first state visit in ten days to the United Kingdom. All eyes will be on how the leaders respond to his arrival. True, he sometimes retreats when other world leaders stand up to him firmly and decisively. This begs the question, is his approach really working? His administration’s direction has already been strongly signaled by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. He announced that if the United States isn’t going to purchase Brazil’s green products, “we will find other partners.”
On Trump’s peace agenda are – like Syria and possibly Iran – the administration’s attempts to re-engage with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. This comes after Kim previously outmaneuvered Trump during his first term, leaving many wondering how this renewed engagement will unfold.
“If the United States doesn’t want to buy [from us], we will find new partners.” – Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva
To be clear, such behavior is like that of a schoolyard bully. This has led leaders such as Lula da Silva to stand up against his duplicitous measures. These remarkable developments underscore the compelling interplay between diplomacy and reality, all set against a backdrop defined by change and chaos.
As world leaders continue to deal with Trump’s unpredictable nature, they need to be careful about how they engage with him. The challenge lies in balancing national interests while navigating the whims of a leader known for his brusque demeanor and rapid shifts in policy.