Trump’s blind spot - Ignoring the power of national pride abroad

Donald Trump has long mastered the art of tapping into American nationalism. But unlike most politicians who elevate their nation, Trump’s approach relies heavily on national humiliation — blaming foreign nations for America’s problems and portraying past U.S. leaders as complicit.

His message is simple: Trade imbalances, job losses, immigration, crime, and even addiction are not domestic failures but the result of foreign exploitation. Many Americans have embraced this rhetoric, seeing it as a necessary break from decades of “globalist” policy.

But here’s the critical flaw in that approach: Trump seems to forget that people in other countries also care deeply about their sovereignty and national identity.

Whether it’s trying to buy Greenland (a self-governing territory of Denmark) or making offhand comments about taking Panama, Trump treats sovereign land like commercial real estate. He’s even suggested the U.S. should “redevelop” Gaza after displacing Palestinians — as if that were a property deal waiting to be made.

But sovereign territory isn’t for sale

Nations — especially those with histories of occupation or colonization — treat their land as sacred. These “sacred values” are non-negotiable because they’re bound to national pride, history, and identity. When these are dismissed or commodified, it doesn’t open doors — it slams them shut.

Trump's tone-deafness doesn’t stop at real estate. He’s shown a lack of empathy toward Ukraine, suggesting that its president is dragging out the war merely to secure U.S. aid. That’s a gross simplification of a nation fighting to survive.

His dismissive stance on Ukraine, Denmark, Canada, Panama, Greenland, and Gaza reveals a troubling worldview: One that embraces American nationalism while disregarding the national dignity of others. That kind of attitude doesn’t lead to better deals or stronger alliances. Instead, it breeds distrust.

Countries may still work with the U.S. out of necessity, but few will see it as a reliable or respectful partner under Trump’s brand of diplomacy.

In today’s interconnected world, understanding — not insulting — the pride of other nations is essential. Nationalism isn’t unique to America. When foreign policy ignores that fact, it weakens not only credibility but the ability to lead on the world stage.