Donald Trump has won the US presidential election, marking his second term in office. At a time when several countries are entangled in conflicts or tensions, it will be intriguing to see how Trump shapes relationships with other world powers. Here’s a look at his rapport with major global leaders:
Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin
Russia appears optimistic about Trump’s return, hoping it could lead to an end to the Russia-Ukraine war. Trump has previously expressed admiration for Putin and even promised to resolve the Ukraine conflict within a day. However, the Kremlin’s response has been cautious, stating that the US remains an adversarial country involved directly and indirectly in the conflict against Russia.
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Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping
Though Trump has praised Xi Jinping personally, his policies toward China tell a different story. Chinese strategists may see Trump’s second term as both a challenge and an opportunity. Trump has previously called Xi “smart” and “perfect,” yet he adopted policies that presented China as a strategic threat to the US Trump’s administration imposed tariffs on Chinese imports and held Beijing accountable for the spread of COVID-19, referring to it as the "Chinese virus."
Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu
Trump previously enjoyed strong ties with Netanyahu, demonstrated by moving the US embassy to Jerusalem and recognising the Golan Heights. Trump also played a key role in the Abraham Accords, normalising Israel’s relations with several Arab countries. Although their relationship soured when Netanyahu congratulated Biden in 2020, the two leaders have since reconciled, with Netanyahu recently visiting Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort.
Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman
Trump shares a strong bond with MBS, who he visited on his first official foreign trip as president. Trump has consistently supported Saudi Arabia, even refraining from criticism over human rights issues, including the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Trump recently expressed admiration for MBS, calling him a visionary leader.
Trump and Bangladesh’s Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina
In August 2024, Sheikh Hasina stepped down amid large protests, and she has since relocated to India. Trump’s return to power could offer Hasina a path to diplomatic relevance, potentially aiding her in countering Bangladesh's interim government led by Muhammad Yunus.
Trump and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un
Trump was the first US president to meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, though the talks yielded limited results. Trump’s reelection may open a renewed chapter of diplomacy with North Korea, potentially offering Kim a direct channel to Washington.
Donald Trump also spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, Ukrainian President Zelensky and other global leaders, including French President Macron and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, after registering victory in US Polls.