How Trump Insists on Thanks From Zelensky and Other Foreign Leaders
Briefly

Following a phone conversation between President Trump and Ukrainian President Zelensky, the White House highlighted Zelensky's gratitude towards Trump, emphasizing it multiple times. This incident reveals a broader transactional approach in Trump’s foreign policy, wherein aid to allies is viewed as a favor. Michael Froman of the Council on Foreign Relations noted that Trump’s perspective suggests a departure from traditional diplomacy, where U.S. support was integral to mutual defense interests. The article illustrates a significant shift in diplomatic relations under Trump's administration, focusing on personal acknowledgment and gratitude from leaders.
After President Trump spoke with President Zelensky, the White House emphasized that Zelensky expressed gratitude repeatedly, showcasing Trump's desire for acknowledgment from allies.
Michael Froman noted that Trump’s transactional foreign policy approach treats support for U.S. allies as a favor, which may alter longstanding diplomatic norms.
Trump appears to demand explicit displays of gratitude for support, taking a different approach than previous U.S. administrations which regarded defense support as mutual interests.
The article reveals a fundamental shift in American foreign policy under Trump, where allied support is increasingly transactional rather than based on shared interests.
Read at www.nytimes.com
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