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Welcome to the Era of the Strongman: The Summits of Trump’s Unyielding Quest!
We are undeniably living in the age of the strongman, a fact laid bare by Gideon Rachman’s indispensable book. A perfect example of this hyper-political leadership—where leaders operate with little regard for national or institutional barriers—is the monumental summit between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping. This crucial meeting in South Korea was marked by soaring expectations of striking a trade deal and restoring semblance to the world’s most significant economic relationship.
Expectations vs. Reality: A Dangerous Play
Despite the reassuring words and friendly gestures, don’t be fooled—what we will likely witness is merely a momentary truce. This reflects leaders who blatantly disregard consensus and regulations, paving the way for an increasingly unpredictable and perilous world. As violent confrontations multiply, the foundational principles of order established from the ashes of World War II are being ignored—paying a hefty price for everyone involved, especially regarding trade relations built on a multilateral system that has long sought to minimize tariffs and protectionism.
Two Leaders, One Disturbing Goal
While Donald Trump and Xi Jinping lead very different nations, they both share a rather alarming and profound trait: both leaders are bent on bending their political systems to their unyielding will. Trump’s notorious political kleptomania echoes the ideologies of the Chinese communists, embracing a fervent passion for walls, protectionism, rampant corruption, and maintaining power—all while marching toward their personal version of a cultural revolution!
China: Preparing to Dominate
However, let us not forget that China has everything to win in the trade battle thrust upon them by the White House. Xi Jinping, going far beyond Mao’s wildest dreams, has been meticulously preparing for years to not just endure this confrontation but to dominate it! Instead of conceding like the rest of the world, China has managed to detach economic growth from political freedom, choosing to control the supply of the products that the world desperately needs.
“Welcome to the new world order: where rejection of consensus is king and walls are only a sign of weakness!”
As we stand at this perilous crossroads, one can’t help but ponder: will the strongman era lead us to destruction or push us toward an unexpected resurgence of sovereignty and strength? Time will tell.
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