Trump is set to film a reality television program within the Oval Office
In the heart of Washington D.C., high-stakes discussions about the ongoing Ukraine conflict took place between the USA, Germany, and the EU. During these talks, former media policy advisor to Angela Merkel, Eva Christiansen, observed that the unconventional political style of US President Donald Trump resembled a reality TV show.
Christiansen explained that EU representatives navigated diplomacy with Trump's "reality-TV style" by adopting clever and strategic communication approaches. This involved understanding the spectacle-driven nature of his communication and preparing accordingly to maintain effective dialogue without being derailed by the unpredictability of his style.
In an attempt to engage with Trump, European diplomats departed from past diplomatic norms, emphasizing gratitude and recognition towards the President. However, Christiansen noted that Trump can change his mind quickly, regardless of how friendly and flattering the interactions were.
The Oval Office, according to Christiansen, was transformed into a setting for "reality TV," with state guests merely playing the role of extras. Trump, she asserted, dominates conversations, directing questions and answers for the benefit of his supporters. The interactions in the Oval Office, Christiansen described, were "scripted reality," suggesting they are not authentic or spontaneous.
In a video of the Ukraine summit shared online, Trump portrayed himself as a superior statesman to appeal to his voters. Christiansen believes that state guests must now plan their Oval Office interactions carefully, as they are for the cameras and Trump's supporters.
Despite the unconventional nature of the interactions, the Europeans made their points effectively during the discussions, ensuring that Trump listened. Christiansen evaluates their approach as politically wise, describing it as a masterclass in diplomacy.
The goal of the Europeans in their flattery was to end the Russian attack on Ukraine and prevent a dictated peace for Ukraine. The approach of the Europeans in their interactions with Trump could be seen as a successful strategy in managing his reality-TV style diplomacy. Trump, adapting to the viewing habits of the population, reached them via social media.
In conclusion, the EU representatives managed Trump's reality-TV style by being tactically savvy and responsive to his unique communication methods, focusing on strategic engagement rather than traditional diplomatic protocols. This approach, as demonstrated during the Ukraine crisis talks, could serve as a valuable lesson for future diplomatic interactions with unconventional leaders.
