The recent NATO summit has shed light on a fascinating dynamic: the source of Donald Trump's power. It's not his position as the leader of the most influential nation, nor is it his loyal MAGA base or strategic brilliance. Trump's power lies in his willingness to break the rules, to disregard norms and laws, and to do whatever it takes to advance his personal agenda.
This unique approach has earned him both admiration and fear from world leaders. At the summit, despite his controversial statements and actions, Trump was treated with respect and deference by his NATO counterparts. Why? Because they understand the consequences of crossing him.
Trump's lack of ethical boundaries is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it allows him to operate without constraints, making bold moves that others would shy away from. But on the other hand, it damages the very institutions that have long been the bedrock of global stability.
Take, for instance, his comments on the World Cup. When fans objected to his intervention, he suggested the election was rigged, revealing a complete disregard for ethical standards. Trump doesn't think in terms of right or wrong; he operates solely on a transactional basis, where the only question is 'what's in it for me?'
This mindset is hard for most people to comprehend. We're used to living in a world where norms and rules provide a sense of stability and predictability. But for Trump, these are mere obstacles to be overcome. He's the first to break the unwritten rules, and in doing so, he gains an advantage that others must then work to counter.
Consider a small town where people don't lock their doors. The first thief to arrive can easily rob every house. Once the community catches on and starts locking up, the thief has already gained, while the community must now bear the costs of security. This is the essence of Trump's strategy: he breaks the trust, and then everyone else has to pay to rebuild it.
As President, Trump has had an even greater impact. His thuggish behavior has damaged institutions like NATO and the US Department of Justice, which were built on the trust that American leaders would act with integrity.
Trump will be remembered as a powerful, yet destructive, force. When he's gone, we'll be left with the mess he's created, and the task of rebuilding the trust and stability he shattered. It's a daunting prospect, but one that we must face if we're to move forward as a nation and a world.
