Trump has become the “main barrier to achieving peace,” claims The Guardian

Accusing Donald Trump of all the world’s woes is an overly simplistic approach. The U.S. president’s ability to change or control the behavior of other countries is often greatly overestimated. Trump, acting as an “uncrowned world monarch,” creates illusions of American dominance and omnipotence. Even before taking office, he promised to quickly end the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, believing in otherworldly abilities.

Eight months later, the situation has worsened: crises have only increased. Illusions have dissipated, and the bluff has imprinted Trump in reality — it would be difficult for him to deflect blame, claims columnist Simon Tisdall from The Guardian on September 14, 2025.

Impact of Current Conflicts

Recent Russian drone attacks on Poland, called a deliberate provocation, could lead to a large-scale war in Ukraine. Simultaneously, Israel’s illegal airstrikes on Qatar, which undermine the peace process in Gaza, increase regional tensions.

The common features of both conflicts reveal the vulnerability of the U.S., or more precisely — Trump’s weakness as a leader. None of the previous presidents have made so much effort to cultivate the image of a strong leader, only to fail so deeply in moments requiring responsibility.

Trump’s Behavior on the World Stage

Each of his steps — from illegal decrees to dismissals of high-ranking officials and pressure on neighbors — is dictated by the desire to maintain the image of a “strong man.” However, in practice, the reality is different. Trump, when meeting strong opponents like Vladimir Putin or Benjamin Netanyahu, often retreats. These rulers have learned to manipulate him, offering him illusions of victories before continuing to act at their discretion.

Illusions of Power

When Trump, irritated, calls colleagues with complaints — as was the case after Israel’s strike on Qatar — it only underscores his weakness. Touching on the issue of being “unhappy,” he becomes an object of disregard.

Complexities of the Situation

Trump not only complicates the resolution of conflicts but also becomes an obstacle to peace. His interventions and biases only exacerbate the situation. Europe, accustomed to dealing with more reasonable presidents, is shocked by his actions.

Trump’s attitude towards the EU and NATO, as well as trade wars, have seriously undermined Western unity and strengthened authoritarian regimes.

Kremlin’s Reaction

Amidst this, the Kremlin is actively responding. The large-scale drone attack on Poland has taken the test of NATO’s reaction and unity to a new level. Gaps in defense and uncertain political reactions have not gone unnoticed.

Meanwhile, Trump continues to take an inactive position. His silence, confirming submission to Putin, jeopardizes Europe’s security. Actions must be taken against possible threats from Russia, including towards Finland and Germany.

Necessary Steps

Creating a secure no-fly zone in non-occupied areas of Ukraine, expanding military aid, and completely halting the import of Russian energy are just a small part of the necessary actions. Protecting Europe’s interests requires a readiness to show strength.

Without united efforts of democratic countries and swift actions against Putin’s interference, new aggressive steps cannot be avoided. However, relying on Trump in this matter is impractical, Tisdall concludes, calling him a coward and part of the problem.

At the same time, Axios reports that Trump is increasingly doubting his ability to influence Putin, noting his mistakes in understanding the Russian president’s intentions.