World leaders have adopted unconventional methods to win the favor of former President Donald Trump during diplomatic engagements in 2025. From calling him “Daddy” to presenting him with Nobel Peace Prizes, these interactions have taken on a theatrical tone, showcasing a blend of admiration and strategic flattery.
During a NATO pre-summit press briefing in The Hague, Trump made an unusual comparison, likening the ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel to “children in a schoolyard.” Following this, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte remarked, “Daddy has to sometimes use strong language.” Trump responded positively, saying, “I think he likes me. If he doesn’t I’ll let you know.” This playful exchange was later amplified by the White House’s social media team, which shared a clip set to Usher’s track “Hey Daddy,” demonstrating a keen sense of branding in the era of social media.
Rutte’s comments did not stop at light-hearted jests. He acknowledged Trump’s pivotal role in initiating dialogue with Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing, “There’s only one leader who could break the deadlock originally, and it had to be the American president, because he is the most powerful leader in the world.”
In a formal display of respect, Sir Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, delivered a rare second state visit invitation from King Charles III to Trump in February 2025. Starmer described the invitation as “really special” and “unprecedented,” underscoring the strength of Anglo-American relations. Trump, visibly moved, acknowledged the significance of the invitation, stating, “Your country is a fantastic country, and it will be our honour to be there, thank you.”
Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also joined the ranks of Trump’s admirers during her visit to the United States. She stated, “Together we have been defending the freedom of Ukraine. Together we can build a just and lasting peace.” Meloni even adapted Trump’s campaign slogan, declaring, “The goal for me is to Make the West Great Again. I think we can do it together,” solidifying her alignment with Trump’s political messaging.
A surprising moment occurred when Venezuelan opposition figure and Nobel Peace Prize laureate María Corina Machado presented Trump with her Nobel medal during a White House meeting. Trump took to social media, expressing gratitude and noting, “Such a wonderful gesture of mutual respect. Thank you, María!” This unexpected gift further illustrated the complex dynamics of international relations and individual influence.
Not all interactions have been entirely flattering. In May 2025, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney acknowledged Trump as “a transformational president” while firmly asserting that Canada “is not for sale, won’t be for sale ever.” This statement highlighted the delicate balance leaders must strike when addressing Trump, showcasing both respect and caution.
The praise extended beyond verbal flattery. Trump’s remarks about world leaders often included observations about their appearances. For instance, he complimented Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on his attire during a meeting, saying, “I love it.” Zelenskyy, who had previously faced criticism for his military attire, responded, “It’s the best I have.” Similarly, Trump praised Finland’s President Alexander Stubb for his looks, noting, “You look better than I have ever seen you look.”
Political analysts have suggested that flattering Trump is a strategic move to maintain favorable relations. Ivo Daalder, a senior fellow at Harvard’s Belfer Center and former US ambassador to NATO, stated, “Flattery and saying he is the best… is meant to first and foremost keep him on side.” Daalder emphasized that Trump desires recognition as a significant figure in international affairs, often seeking to be perceived as a winner during diplomatic discussions.
As the world observes these interactions, it becomes evident that the art of diplomacy in 2025 has taken on an entirely new dimension, blending personal admiration with geopolitical strategy. The ongoing engagements between Trump and global leaders not only reflect their attempts to foster relationships but also highlight the evolving nature of international diplomacy in the current political landscape.
