Peace, Power and Profit: The Logic Behind Donald Trump's Dealmaking Diplomacy
The article explores the contrasting facets of Donald Trump's approach to diplomacy, highlighting the difference between his campaign promises of ending wars and delivering peace, and his presidency actions which combined backing ceasefires with the relaunch of war in Gaza and authorizing bombings in Yemen and Iran, along with threats toward Venezuela.
Allegations arose that parts of a 20-point peace plan were shared with Russia before being fully presented to Ukraine, raising condemnation. A leaked recording revealed Steve Witkoff advising a Russian official, which Trump dismissed as typical dealmaker behavior.
Supporters cite the renewal of the Gaza ceasefire in October and peace initiatives involving countries such as Thailand, Cambodia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, India, and Pakistan as evidence of breakthroughs stemming from Trump's outsider approach to diplomacy.
Critics warn that this approach prioritizes leverage over diplomacy, reducing sovereignty and international law to transactions. The fusion of Trump's business interests with his presidency is viewed as dangerous for democracy.
The Trump Organization expanded its branding and licensing deals with Arab countries including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, primarily through third-party capital and licensing fees rather than direct family funding, with profits flowing back to the Trump family. Notably, Dar Al Arkan paid the Trump Organization $21.9 million in license fees in 2024 for projects in Dubai and Oman.
Additionally, the Trump family's crypto venture featured a dollar-sign Trump meme coin, generating speculative value and fees for the family as the token traded.
Jared Kushner played a central role in Gaza ceasefire negotiations and Russia-Ukraine diplomacy despite prior pledges to avoid government roles. His private equity firm Affinity Partners is funded by some governments he negotiates with, blurring the lines between diplomacy and business.
