One Day, Three Crises, and Trump’s Unconventional Diplomacy

On Wednesday, a series of high-stakes diplomatic events unfolded worldwide, showcasing former U.S. President Donald Trump’s unconventional approach to foreign policy. Supporters see it as a demonstration of his “art of the deal,” using negotiation tactics to achieve his goals. Critics, however, argue that it is a strategy of unnecessary disruption without regard for potential consequences.

Direct Negotiations with Hamas

The day began with reports that the U.S. government was directly negotiating with Hamas leaders to secure the release of American hostages in Gaza. This move marks a significant shift from previous U.S. policy, as Hamas has been designated a terrorist organization by the U.S. since 1997.

While past administrations relied on intermediaries for such discussions, Trump opted for direct talks. This decision raises questions about his willingness to bypass Israel, a key U.S. ally, in pursuit of a diplomatic breakthrough.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office responded briefly, stating that Israel had made its position clear.

Later in the evening, after meeting with released American hostages, Trump took a tougher stance on Hamas. In a Truth Social post, he labeled the group as “sick and twisted” and issued a stark warning: if all hostages were not released, there would be “hell to pay.”

“I am sending Israel everything it needs to finish the job,” Trump wrote. “Not a single Hamas member will be safe if you don’t do as I say.”

Pressure on Ukraine and Zelensky’s Response

In another major diplomatic maneuver, the Trump administration intensified pressure on Ukraine, pausing arms shipments and suspending intelligence-sharing with the war-torn nation.

This move followed weeks of sharp criticism of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, culminating in a tense Oval Office meeting last Friday. By Tuesday, Zelensky responded with a conciliatory letter proposing a limited ceasefire, leading to renewed U.S.-Ukraine talks on a mineral deal to compensate America for its aid expenditures.

Analysts suggest that Trump’s goal is to push Ukraine and Russia toward peace talks. However, it remains unclear what concessions, if any, he expects Russian President Vladimir Putin to make.

Easing the Trade War

Trump’s strategy of using economic pressure was also evident in his handling of trade tariffs.

A month ago, he announced sweeping new tariffs on Canada and Mexico but later backed down. This week, the administration imposed a 25% tariff on imports from both countries—only to soften the blow by granting a one-month exemption for Canadian and Mexican automobiles after stock markets reacted negatively.

U.S. automakers had warned that these tariffs could lead to factory closures within weeks.

Following a conversation with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Trump posted on Truth Social that it was a “somewhat friendly” call, though he accused the “governor” of Canada of leveraging trade tensions to “stay in power.”

While Ukraine quickly responded to U.S. pressure and Hamas negotiations are still in early stages, Canada appears to be preparing for a prolonged trade dispute.

Trump’s unconventional diplomatic playbook is shaking up global politics—but whether it will yield the victories he seeks remains to be seen.