President Donald Trump has failed to secure key deals, leaving America’s allies disappointed and wary of the country’s reliability. Despite his boastful claims about being a “dealmaker,” Trump’s approach has undermined credibility, with many countries questioning America’s commitment to its promises.
Trump’s signature style involves breaking trust with friends while cozying up to rivals. However, this strategy has proven ineffective in achieving lasting progress on key issues like trade and foreign policy. His dismissal of the importance of maintaining American commitments has led to a loss of trust, as seen in the recent ruptures with India, Europe, Canada, and Mexico.
Unlike past dealmakers who prioritized building credibility, Trump has been willing to break promises and rely on threats to get what he wants. However, this approach is not only counterproductive but also erodes America’s reputation worldwide. As a result, countries are now seeking alternative partners, diversifying their supply chains and strengthening ties with other nations.
The consequences of Trump’s dealmaking failures are far-reaching, with China and Russia exploiting the situation to advance their own interests. The U.S.’s inability to deliver on its commitments has led to a decline in America’s position globally, making it essential for a new president to adopt a more effective strategy that balances toughness with reliability.
Despite some short-term wins, Trump’s relentless pressure on allies is now seen as the new normal, leaving many countries adapting to protect themselves rather than acceding to his demands. The world is recognizing that dealing with Trump is like playing a game of whack-a-mole – whenever America makes a promise, it quickly breaks it, making it impossible for others to trust what they say.
As the primary actor in global politics for over a decade, Trump’s leadership style has become synonymous with unpredictability. No country believes that a deal with him is worth its weight in gold. The era of trusting American commitments is behind us; it’s time for America to adopt a more pragmatic and effective approach to foreign policy.
Source: https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2025/09/trump-foreign-policy/684294