Today’s world of diplomacy often feels like an exercise in futility, simply because most of today’s leaders lack the confident audacity that’s necessary to lead people. But I invite you to picture this: Trump, in his signature red tie, strutting onto an Alaskan U.S. military air base like he owns it, as he welcomes Russian President Vladimir Putin to the tarmac, as a B-2 stealth bomber, escorted by four raptor fighter jets buzz overhead. It was the geo-political power move of the century; one I will never forget, and neither will the world.
While the Russian invasion of Ukraine has sent shock waves throughout Europe and beyond, few would have the gall, or sheer audaciousness to believe that it could all be wrapped up with a simple summit hosted in Alaska, a territory purchased from the Russians in 1867, for less than two cents per acre. At the time, the purchase was driven by a combination of factors, and the abiding belief in manifest destiny; with strategic advantage topping the list. The irony here is palpable.
Now let’s talk strategy and logistics. Putin, the master of malevolence, might initially raise an eyebrow at the idea of meeting Trump; that is until he remembers 47s knack for media spectacle. The Russian President thrives on attention and keeping his mother Russia narrative in place. A refusal to meet and conduct a mere semblance of peace talks would completely shift the narrative and give Trump the green light for bone crushing sanctions on the Russian economy and place Putin in a lose-lose position. He’s too smart for that.
Let’s not kid ourselves, Vladmir Putin isn’t one to back-down in world politics. The former KGB operative knows exactly how to deal with most leaders, except for one. Trump, with his unique blend of persuasive bravado and tempered arrogance is the necessary counterpoint to the Russian dictator. He’s the only one that will eventually convince him that ending the war not only benefits the world but also offers a perverse sense of achievement for both leaders. Don’t ever think that’s not an underlying dynamic in all this.
Phase two of Trumps peace making plan involved herding European leaders into the White House on short notice. Within 48 hours of the Alaskan summit, all heads of state from the European Union were assembled in the East Room of the White House, along with the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Imagine the photo op as EU leaders gather round the resolute desk with Trump’s ostentatious demeanor and a framed painting of Ronald Reagan in the background looming over them. With a wink and a nod, Trump reminds them that the world needs stability, and the deal maker has a plan.
But amid the bravado and gestures, we mustn’t dismiss the gravity of this situation. This is serious business, and this war has claimed far too many lives, devastated families and shaken the foundation of international order. Donald Trump specializes in navigating complex terrains and seems to have a flair for making peace. He may not be the most orthodox, but sometimes it takes an unconventional outsider to shake things up.
Yet, while the world watches this grand performance unfold, let’s be clear, this isn’t just for show. If anyone can wrestle a move towards peace while maintaining their signature flair, it’s Trump. Mock him as you will, but he knows how to capitalize on momentum and make something from nothing. It may just take that one outlandish idea of an Alaskan summit with a B-2 flyover to end the devastation in Ukraine.
As we sit back and await next steps, it’s fair to say, only Trump could have scripted this. Some may not agree with his methods, but they’re usually the same few that create the destruction to begin with. This war lies at the feet of the impotent and corrupt Biden administration and a weak European Union.
Going forward, the Alaska summit and the European wrangling will serve as a reunification of a stronger and more respected NATO, both brought to you by the architect of the art of the deal, Donald J Trump.
Editorial comments expressed in this column are the sole opinion of the writer.
