“As president, Trump often surprised allies with his decisions and lacked a nuanced understanding of international relations … many leaders believed that he led with narcissism and a desire for revenge,” commented one of the European ambassadors who communicated with Trump.
In an effort to return to the White House, Trump regularly communicates with foreign officials and tries to influence their opinions on a number of issues. Trump now enjoys meetings with foreign dignitaries, especially if they take place at his Mar-a-Lago residence.
“Trump’s team enjoys his image in meetings with world leaders as his criminal trial unfolds in New York because it portrays him as a leading political figure rather than a criminal defendant,” said a source close to Trump.
“Donald Trump often gravitates toward domestic politics, discussing abortion policy with some leaders and raising the issue of border security with Polish President Andrzej Duda and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. The conversations are often incoherent and sometimes revolve around golf,” according to people briefed on the matter. for the meetings.
Former White House national security adviser John Bolton said: “You can never predict what Trump will do in a meeting.”
“Different leaders approach him in different ways: some try to flatter him, others try to grit their teeth and be patient,” Bolton added.
