The shadow of Donald Trump’s election victory is already influencing international diplomacy as the Group of 20 summit unfolds in Rio de Janeiro. Argentine President Javier Milei, a staunch Trump ally and the first world leader to meet with him post-election, created early tensions by threatening to block a joint leaders’ communiqué over language regarding taxation of the ultra-rich and gender equality. Diplomats interpreted the move as an effort to align with Trump’s incoming administration.
While disputes over summit declarations are not uncommon, Milei’s reversal on an agreement Argentina had previously endorsed over the summer—before Trump’s election—raised eyebrows among diplomats. The incident underscored the shift in global dynamics as leaders begin adjusting to the reality of Trump’s return to power.
Trump’s presence was also felt at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Peru, where private discussions among delegations were dominated by his unexpected Cabinet selections. Notable appointments, such as former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard as director of intelligence and Fox News host Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense, fueled speculation about the direction of U.S. foreign policy under the new administration.
“Everyone was talking about the new cast of characters,” one Asian diplomat remarked, highlighting the intrigue surrounding Trump’s team.
Chinese President Xi Jinping hinted at the transition during his final summit with President Joe Biden, stating China’s willingness to work with the incoming administration “to maintain communication, expand cooperation, and manage differences.” However, Biden, fresh from a two-hour Oval Office meeting with Trump, offered no specifics about the new administration’s plans. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan reiterated that the incoming administration would chart its own course without offering preemptive assurances.
The G20 summit dispute over the communiqué further illustrated how Trump’s influence is reshaping international alliances. Some officials believe Milei’s stance signals an effort to establish a bloc of likeminded conservative leaders aligned with Trump’s vision. Brazilian officials worked to mediate the disagreement, but the episode served as a stark reminder of the contentious atmosphere that marked Trump’s first presidency—and may soon return.
“You can already see the Trump effect taking hold,” a Western diplomat noted. “Conservatives like Milei are angling to create alliances with him before he even takes office. It’s a preview of what the next four years will look like.”
Meanwhile, Biden’s efforts to solidify his legacy at the summit included pledges on combating hunger, poverty, and climate change. However, many leaders view these commitments as symbolic gestures that may be undone by Trump’s administration. As the summit progresses, the tension between outgoing and incoming U.S. leadership highlights the uncertainty facing global governance in the years ahead.
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