At the recently concluded NATO summit, President Donald Trump expressed disappointment with other member states, questioning why the US spends heavily while allies do not reciprocate.
He also reiterated his desire to acquire Greenland, criticized European energy and immigration policies, insulted Spain, and alarmed allies by stating that the conflict between Kyiv and Moscow does not affect the US.
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Despite these remarks, NATO leaders treated Trump with notable courtesy and respect, perhaps more than any previous US president has received.
Trump himself described the meeting as great, filled with love and unity.
Understanding the source of Trump's power is crucial.
It does not stem from his position as president of the most powerful nation; in fact, his tariffs, the war in Iran, and the abduction of Nicolás Maduro have diminished US standing globally.
Nor does it come from his Maga base, which is reconsidering support due to involvement in another Middle Eastern war and rising prices.
Nor is it due to strategic brilliance.
Trump's power arises from his willingness to violate all norms, rules, and laws that typically constrain US presidents.
He acts to accumulate wealth, power, and glory, and to exact revenge on those who obstruct him.
NATO leaders treat him with deference because they fear what he might do if crossed.
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Trump is unconstrained by norms, rules, treaties, or laws, whether concerning NATO, Iran, the World Cup, the 2020 election, or profiting from his presidency.
