After the US launched strikes on Iran this week, Donald Trump declared the fragile ceasefire he had co-signed just last month was over. He also reignited threats to take Greenland, before leaving the Nato summit in Ankara, claiming there was a lot of 'love' and 'unity' in the room.
Ceasefire collapse and renewed threats
The strikes on Iran marked a dramatic escalation, with Trump stating the ceasefire was no longer in effect. This reversal came just weeks after the US and Iran had agreed to a temporary halt in hostilities. Trump then turned his attention to Greenland, repeating his interest in acquiring the Danish territory, a move that has been widely criticized.
Nato summit: 'love' amid tension
At the Nato summit in Ankara, Trump praised the alliance, despite ongoing disagreements over defense spending and strategic priorities. He described the atmosphere as one of 'love' and 'unity', though many allies remain skeptical of his commitment to collective security.
Jonathan Freedland of the Guardian spoke to Susan Glasser of the New Yorker to analyze how diplomats can engage with a leader who appears to repeat the same confrontational patterns. Glasser noted that Trump's approach creates a 'diplomatic Groundhog Day', making progress nearly impossible.
Expert analysis and listener engagement
Listeners are encouraged to send questions and feedback to politicsweeklyamerica@theguardian.com. The episode is part of the Politics Weekly America podcast series, which also features World Cup Daily and Stateside with Kai and Carter.
Support the Guardian at theguardian.com/politicspodus. Photograph: Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto/Shutterstock. Archive sources: AP, Reuters.
