World Leaders Navigate Tensions with US President Donald Trump

Diplomats from several countries are grappling with the unpredictable style of US President Donald Trump. Trump has alternately praised leaders such as China’s Xi Jinping and India’s Narendra Modi while rebuking European figures, notably Italy’s Giorgia Meloni, over perceived lack of support for the US‑Israel conflict with Iran. Meloni responded by calling Trump a liar after a disputed selfie request at the G‑7 summit. Other officials, including Canada’s Mark Carney and India’s Modi, are weighing whether to maintain cordial ties or push back on US policy demands, especially concerning trade and strategic partnerships. The commentary highlights the broader diplomatic challenge of addressing a leader who mixes personal affronts with official policy signals.