Trump's Selective Diplomatic Treatment

Published on 5.23.25

  In recent years, Donald Trump's diplomatic receptions have been marked by a stark contrast in treatment of foreign leaders. While some world leaders have received praise and admiration from the former US President, others have faced humiliation and public belittling. One notable example is Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who has been publicly humiliated by Trump, who labeled him a 'dictator' and said he had done a 'terrible job' leading his country. This disparity in treatment highlights the unpredictable nature of Trump's diplomatic approach. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer attempted to build rapport with Trump but was met with hostility over international trade, while Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was bristled at by Trump's comments on trade and Canada's military assistance. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was praised by Trump for being a 'great friend' and a 'much tougher negotiator' than he is. French President Emmanuel Macron was also warmly received by Trump, who praised him as a 'smart customer.' Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was similarly welcomed, with Trump calling him 'the greatest friend Israel has ever had' during his visit to the White House. The reception of Argentine President Javier Milei and Finnish President Sauli Niinistö were also notable, with Trump calling Milei his 'favorite president,' and the two spending seven hours playing golf together.

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