By Isaac Asabor
In an era where diplomacy and international relations should be based on mutual respect, it is disheartening to witness the leader of the free world, US President Donald Trump, continually making condescending and dismissive remarks about other sovereign nations. His most recent slight, directed at the African nation of Lesotho, where he claimed that “nobody has ever heard of” the country, is just another in a long list of derogatory statements that reflect his disregard for nations outside of America’s immediate sphere of influence.
Recalling his pattern of disrespect to other nations right from his first term as American President, Trump’s Lesotho remark follows a well-documented pattern of diplomatic insensitivity. During his first term in office, he reportedly expressed regret over meeting Nigeria’s then-President Muhammadu Buhari, and in an even more infamous moment, referred to African nations as “shithole countries.” Such statements not only damage America’s standing in the international community but also betray a lack of understanding of the global landscape.
His tendency to disrespect world leaders is not limited to Africa. Recently, he referred to Canada as the 51st state of America, an offensive and dismissive remark toward a long-standing ally. Furthermore, in a shocking display of arrogance, he belittled Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, speaking to him in a manner that suggested he was addressing a subordinate rather than a fellow head of state. These instances showcase a disturbing trend in Trump’s approach to international diplomacy, one that threatens America’s relationships with allies and undermines its global leadership role.
At this juncture, not a few readers may be wondering why Trump’s disrespect to other sovereign nations is bothersome to this writer. However, to assuage anyone’s state of wonderment in this context, it is expedient to opinionate on why Trump’s attitude is harmful by saying that a country as powerful as the United States holds a significant position on the global stage. With such influence comes the responsibility of conducting foreign affairs with tact and diplomacy. The way a US president speaks about other nations has far-reaching consequences, shaping public opinion, influencing foreign policy decisions, and either fostering or damaging international relations.
When Trump dismisses smaller nations, he disregards the significance of their sovereignty, culture, and contributions to the global community. His remarks about Lesotho, for example, undermine the historical and political relevance of the country. Lesotho is not just some obscure place that “nobody has heard of”, it is a sovereign state with a rich history, cultural heritage, and international significance.
Trump’s habit of disrespecting leaders also weakens global partnerships. The United States has historically relied on allies and international cooperation to advance economic and security interests. However, his dismissive rhetoric makes it harder for other countries to trust and work with America. Insulting global leaders only serves to alienate valuable partners who may be crucial in matters of trade, military alliances, and humanitarian efforts.
In fact, a dispassionate analysis of Trump’s disposition, which by implication is that of America, towards other sovereign nations, reveals that there is hypocrisy in America’s global stance. For instance, the United States often positions itself as a champion of democracy and global cooperation. However, Trump’s remarks contradict this stance. By insulting world leaders and their nations, he isolates America from the very countries it should be working with. His rhetoric fosters division and fuels anti-American sentiment, making diplomatic efforts more difficult for future administrations.
Moreover, Trump’s words create an air of American superiority that belittles the achievements of other nations. This is not only unfair but also hypocritical, considering that many countries, including those he insults, have contributed to global advancements in technology, science, and diplomacy. Leaders of sovereign nations, regardless of their country’s size or economic strength, deserve respect, just as American leaders expect respect from others.
It is also important to recognize that dismissing smaller nations as insignificant ignores the contributions these countries make to the world. Lesotho, for instance, has played a key role in regional politics, water resource management, and textile manufacturing. Canada has been an important ally in international peacekeeping missions and trade agreements. Ukraine, under Zelensky’s leadership, has demonstrated resilience and courage in the face of conflict, earning the respect of many across the world. By disregarding these contributions, Trump not only insults these nations but also weakens America’s global alliances.
Given the backdrop of the foregoing views, there is no denying the fact that the role of diplomacy in global affairs is indispensable. In fact, diplomacy is the foundation of international relations, and successful diplomacy is built on mutual respect. When a leader of a powerful nation speaks recklessly about other countries, it undermines decades of diplomatic efforts.
Take, for example, the longstanding relationship between the US and Canada. Trump’s casual reference to Canada as America’s 51st state is not just a joke, it is an affront to a nation that has been a steadfast ally in trade, military cooperation, and global diplomacy. Such remarks damage trust and could lead to strained relations in the future.
Similarly, Trump’s condescending approach to Ukraine’s President Zelensky, a leader courageously navigating his country through a devastating war, is an insult not only to Ukraine but to all nations fighting for their sovereignty. At a time when Ukraine needs international support, belittling its leader is counterproductive and harmful.
History has shown that diplomacy is far more effective than antagonism in achieving national interests. Countries that work together on shared challenges, such as climate change, security threats, and economic instability, often achieve greater success than those that operate in isolation. A responsible world leader should seek to build bridges, not burn them. Unfortunately, Trump’s approach is the opposite, he thrives on controversy and division, often at the expense of America’s long-term diplomatic relationships.
To assert in this context that America has responsibility to remain diplomatic and respectful; whether under normal or abnormal circumstances, as a global leader cannot in any way be pooh-poohed. This is as the US has long been seen as a beacon of hope, democracy, and leadership. However, with Trump’s continued disregard for other nations, America risks losing that reputation. Great leadership is not about wielding power arrogantly but about fostering unity, understanding, and cooperation. If Trump wishes to maintain America’s leadership status, he must learn to respect the sovereignty of other nations and their leaders.
Furthermore, Trump’s language sets a dangerous precedent. If the leader of the world’s most powerful country can publicly insult and belittle other nations without consequences, it may embolden other world leaders to do the same. This would lead to a global political climate where diplomacy is replaced with insults, and cooperation is replaced with hostility.
It is worth remembering that no country stands alone in the modern world. Nations are interconnected in terms of trade, security, environmental concerns, and cultural exchanges. America’s ability to lead on the world stage depends not only on its military and economic strength but also on the respect it commands through its actions and words. If Trump continues to alienate global leaders with his disrespectful comments, he risks weakening America’s global influence.
Against the foregoing backdrop, it is germane to opine in this context that it is time for Trump to change his approach. It is imperative that President Trump understands the weight of his words. His remarks about Lesotho, Canada, and Ukraine are not just passing comments, they are statements that shape international relations. If he continues down this path of disrespect, he risks alienating allies, damaging America’s global reputation, and undermining the very values that the US claims to uphold.
Without any iota of exaggeration, respect is a fundamental principle of leadership. A true leader does not build himself up by tearing others down. Instead of making dismissive and condescending remarks, Trump should adopt a more measured and respectful approach when addressing world leaders and their nations. The world is watching, and history will remember how he treated other countries. It is not too late for him to change his approach, but he must do so before further damage is done.
By treating all nations, big or small, with the respect they deserve, Trump has an opportunity to foster global goodwill and strengthen America’s international standing. If he fails to do so, he will leave behind a legacy of unnecessary division, hostility, and diminished global influence for the United States.
