Trump Leans on Familiar Dealmaking Formula With Xi and Putin

In a familiar pattern, President Trump has employed a dealmaking approach in his foreign policy negotiations with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin. This strategy involves threatening escalation, followed by a retreat from the brink, in an effort to secure concessions. Trump has utilized this tactic repeatedly, including in his trade war with China and his dealings with Russia over issues such as election interference and the conflict in Ukraine. By raising the stakes and then backing down, Trump aims to extract favorable outcomes, even if the ultimate results are not as substantial as his initial demands. This approach has drawn criticism from both allies and adversaries, who view it as erratic and unpredictable. However, Trump's supporters argue that it reflects his negotiating style and willingness to take bold actions to achieve his goals. As the president continues to employ this strategy, the long-term implications for American diplomacy and global stability remain to be seen.