Thursday 31 March 2016

Trump needs to learn lessons in diplomacy

Donald Trump in the last several months has garnered a tremendous amount of attention due to his headline grabbing remarks on a variety of different issues. As a businessman, but a skillful entertainer who knows how to play the system, he has tapped into a segment of American voters who are incensed with the perceived lack of leadership under the Obama administration. A key element of this anger stems from the notion the US has not brokered fair agreements or arrangements whether it is pertaining to the Iranian nuclear deal, or economic issues related to trade with Mexico or China.
His candidacy has relied on portraying this image of a very strong leader and businessman, that is going to turn the tide on the Obama years, as some believe various foreign leaders and nations were able to exploit a weaker Obama and conduct themselves in a manner that effectively took advantage of the US.
In a recent interview with the New York Times, Trump stated he would probably stop oil purchases from Saudi Arabia and other allies to the US, if they didn’t provide ground troops to fight Daesh.
Trump could certainly use a history lesson, as the relationship between the US and Saudi Arabia has typically been a two-way relationship since the 1930s, and has been both in and outside of the public view.
In more recent years, Saudi Arabia has been a key ally during various other conflicts including the first Gulf War, war on terrorism and also countering Iranian influence throughout the region. It goes without saying the ability to provide free flow of oil to the global economy benefits everyone, but there is a lot of effort that takes place behind the scenes in order to maintain it.
Unfortunately, the Obama years have created an environment within the US where comments such as Trump’s gain traction and noticeable support. However, Trump’s style, rhetoric and approach to communicating his thoughts have certainly alienated many people in the country, including a sizable number of members within his own Republican Party.
Donald Trump will most likely receive the Republican nomination for president, but in my own opinion, it will be very difficult for him to gain enough support overall to win the 2016 election. His ego and mouth got in the way for what would have been a golden opportunity for the Republican Party to take back the White House and strengthen America, as the country desperately needs good leadership. However, Trump is not the right person for the job and could use a few lessons in diplomacy

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